I feel that we should shorten and return the Pledge of Allegiance back to its original form, written by Francis Bellamy in 1887. It says, "I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." Later, "the Flag of the United States of America" were added. Then, in response to the growing threat of Communism, Dwight Eisenhower encouraged Congress to add "Under god" to the pledge. According to my calculations, family and I have said the newer pledge, and it took around 6 seconds longer than the Pledge by Bellamy. Saving almost 20 minutes in a 180 day school year. There's another benefit. Others might pray to a different being, or not at all. In a world where politically correctness is the norm, it's needed.



