To Burn or Not to Burn?

Assignment:  Respond to thematic question, using three participial phrases:

• opener
• subject-verb split
• closer

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The American flag, sacred to many, should be treasured by all, should be tolerated by all.  Burning the American flag is only appropriate in certain situations, including the retirement of a flag and the touching of flag to the ground.  For instance, while this may seem extreme, the burning of the flag results in proper etiquette being observed.  Some, though, burn the flag for inappropriate reasons, as is reported in this article entitled "Protester dies after inhaling fumes from burning American flag."  Part of the American in me says, "Please appreciate the privilege."  The other part of the American in me says, "Justice."  Then, I question:  What is that balance between the toleration of ideals?  Would I go to the point of "indefensible hysteria"? Knowing my personal convictions and my love for this country, my level of tolerance only goes so far.  My response?  Move.  To anywhere but here.  

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The American flag, sacred to many, should be treasured by all, should be tolerated by all.

Burning the American flag is only appropriate in certain situations, including the retirement of a flag and the touching of flag to the ground.  For instance, while this may seem extreme, the burning of the flag results in proper etiquette being observed.

Some, though, burn the flag for inappropriate reasons, as is reported in this article entitled "Protester dies after inhaling fumes from burning American flag."  Part of the American in me says, "Please appreciate the privilege."  The other part of the American in me says, "Justice."  Then, I question:  What is that balance between the toleration of ideals?  Would I go to the point of "indefensible hysteria"?

Knowing my personal convictions and my love for this country, my level of tolerance only goes so far.  My response?  Move.  To anywhere but here.