My family and I went to a real rodeo while we were in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in mid-August. We watched bucking broncos, bull riding, barrel racing, rodeo clowns and a number of other events in a family-friendly atmosphere. It was delayed a bit due to a rain shower passing through!

One the most memorable things about this event was how they started it. Think about how often at events like football and baseball games, you will hear the announcer telling the crown to stand, remove hats to show honor and respect for the American flag.

This was completely unnecessary here! A young woman on horseback started to ride into the arena with an American flag. Everyone stood immediately. Men removed hats, hands went to hearts, conversations stopped, children quieted down. Silence reigned as the flag was slowly circled in the arena, and came to a stop in from of the grandstand. The announcer commented on how he had not needed to tell us what to do! He made some heart felt comments about our nation, and the men and women serving in the armed forces. We sang the national anthem together. The young woman on horseback then took that flag around the arena at a very fast pace – it was a very inspiring and heart warming sight! We cheered and made a lot of noise!

I will never forget that moment and the feeling of pride I had, to be an American. I was also so thankful that this spontaneous display of national unity and pride is still reflective of most of America, outside of the Peoples Republic of Oak Park, Illinois!