Nation splits over the Pledge of Allegiance

Re “Under whom?” editorial, Sept. 18

It is the best commentary on this ridiculous matter that I have read. I grew up reciting the original version of the pledge and was a freshman in college in 1954 when “under God” was inserted between “one nation” and “indivisible.” It took years for me to remember to include it, and it still seems out of place, a literary intrusion that impedes the poetic flow, and an ideological intrusion. Neither the pledge nor our nation should be divinized. Unfortunately, “under God” has come between “one nation” and “indivisible.”

THE REV. MERLE LEHMAN

Murrieta

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I find it difficult to pledge allegiance to an object, even if it is the U.S. flag. The pledge, whether “under God” or not, is meaningless when learned by rote and said the same way. Is it time we change it to something like: “I pledge allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and to the Republic that it governs. One nation indivisible with liberty, equality and justice for all.” It might even lead to a better understanding of the basic values we hold so dear.

LOU DEL POZZO

Pacific Palisades

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I attended Catholic school from first grade. As a 6-year-old, my understanding of the wording of the Pledge of Allegiance was: “I pledge allegiance, etc. ... with liberty and justice for all. Good morning, Sister.”

ELIZABETH BRYER

North Hollywood