Mother of a soldier~Flag used for boudoir pictures~wrapped around naked women....

[MRB7678]

Hi, I am new and was searching for right words to respond to a post I put on facebook without being judgemental and showing anger to some peoples response to my posting....here is what I posted:

just curious, a friend of mine was showing me some “boudoir pictures he shot, most pictures were in good taste but...one in particular has been on my mind, just curious what others opinion would be? As a mother of a soldier I had a hard time with the one that the women was wrapped in the United States flag. My opinion, not a place for our flag..I believe there is an "american flag etiquette", that should be upheld.

Lots of responses, and it is funny how some people can say it is just a piece of cloth and comparing flag etiquette to table etiquette and so much was posted that I am trying to write a response that is very clear and to make some people think.....I respect everyone's opinion but find myself shaking my head at some of the responses of friends and family....first of all there is a full blown argument going on with quite a few people that are suppose to be adults. Some past military have responded and were very upset with some of the postings (rightfully so), but I am trying to calm it down a little so have to give it some real thought.....and at the same time make some people think more...any suggestions or thoughts from anyone about their feelings......

[Vexman]

As Americans, we are free to use the flag in many different ways, some of which other Americans will find offensive. I think we should commend flag manners we individually like and condemn those we don't. However, at the same time we must remind ourselves that what we think about it is not binding on anyone else.

Over the years, our ancestors took the flag to heart in many different ways, many of which we would find obnoxious. Opinions and attitudes have changed over the years and that is to be expected. Keep in mind one of the things that differentiates us from most other countries is that we do not have any Flag Police and hopefully never will.

Freedom means accepting there will be differences in opinions and actions regarding things like the flag.

[MrsHooah]

MRB7678: I agree with you. I'm a military wife, sister and daughter (I'm also a Liberal, ironically) - AND - a photographer. I refuse to use an actual American Flag in any fashion that goes against Flag Code. There is a Flag Code because the American Flag is a representation of our life, liberty and happiness. The only time an American Flag should be draped over anyone's body is when they've made the Ultimate Sacrifice and given their life for their country. I've had many clients ask me to use it in boudoir photography as well as newborn photography, and I politely refuse - show them the code reference and then suggest incorporating red/white/blue and/or stars/stripes in some other way. The way the flag is displayed has nothing to do with religion, politics or opinion. It is a symbol of our freedom and should be displayed with honor. Those who are intelligent enough use their words carefully and correctly don't need to be disrespectful because they have the intelligence to articulate themselves. I understand that people choose to use the flag in ways that are contrary to code, but it doesn't make it right. And, the viewpoint that our freedom is what protects us and lets us be disrespectful is a lame argument. I can separate my dissatisfaction with certain politician, laws from my love for my country.