I was recently driving through the town of Buckfield and was so pleased to see the many American flags on the telephone poles that line the town and into the surrounding country. Good for you, citizens of Buckfield!

I live in Lewiston and have been looking for signs of citizenship and support for our military personnel. What happened to the American flags we saw on everyone’s car antennas and on the doors of our houses and in our windows after the attack of Sept. 11?

We do not all share the same view of the war, but this is the same nation that invoked such pride after we were attacked. Why would we not be even more eager to show pride and support as we fight this war against terrorism?

Is this war the way to fight terrorism? I don’t know, but this I do know: I am proud and grateful to be an American. I am proud that we are a people who don’t want to fight unless the cause is just. I am proud that I don’t need to be fearful as I raise the flag on my lawn, and can pray as I attach yellow ribbons to the trees in front of my house.

Yes, I pray for our military volunteers and I pray for our citizens to remember to be proud of who we are: Americans.

So let’s raise those flags, wrap those ribbons and pray for wisdom and peace.

Penny Goodwin, Lewiston