By Expert Kristin McGee
www.kristinmcgee.com



In Elementary School, right after the first bell rang and we all were settled in our desks, we would stand up and put our hands over our hearts and speak the Pledge of Allegiance.





“I pledge allegiance to the flag
Of the United States of America
And to the Republic
For which it stands
One Nation
Under God
Indivisible
With Liberty and Justice for all.”

I loved this ritual and I love everything the Pledge of Allegiance stands for. I am proud to be an American and I have the utmost respect for my country and our founding fathers. I am also proud to be part of a global community. I have led yoga retreats all over the world and I’ve been able to experience many other wonderful countries. I have an article in this months Allure Magazine entitled “How to go on a Yoga Retreat” if you want more information.

I think one of my favorite things about yoga practice is when I stand at the front of the mat and bring my hands together in front of my heart in a gesture of gratitude and respect for my self, my practice, my fiancé, my family, my community, my life, my body, and my country. I’ve read time and again how important it is to have a gratitude list or make some sort of ritual of writing down all the things in your life that bring you joy. When I do my sun salutations, I think of all the incredible opportunities in my life.

When I used to recite the Pledge of Allegiance every day in school as a child, it reminded me of why I am so very lucky and privileged to be living in this amazing country. Today is the 1st day of July and we are about to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th.  Every day this month when I start my yoga practice, I will not only bring my hands together in front of my heart; but I will also make sure to put my right hand over my heart and speak the Pledge of Allegiance with pride.

July 4th has even more significance to me since it is the day of my little brother’s birthday. Kristopher was born July 4th, 1976 so he is a true bicentennial baby. Kristopher has the integrity, intelligence, independent thinking, and insight that our founding fathers had. Kristopher is an inspiration to me and he teaches me through his example to grow as a freethinking, respectable, honest and accountable human being. I love you so very much Toph—Happy Birthday to you and to the Mighty USA.