One of the most watched television programs in the 1960s was The Red Skelton Show, which bore the name of the star comedian. People expected to be entertained, and this program never failed to provide it. This video is one of several instances where the directors have turned their attention to more depressing topics.
The subject for this specific monologue was the significance of the words used in the Pledge of Allegiance. The host of the program reflects on a time when he was in school and one of his teachers gave him a lesson he would never forget.
In Red’s account, his teacher expressed displeasure with the number of times the pledge was recited. He wanted the children to understand everything they were saying. He can now, many years later, recite that speech word for word, proving that his teacher’s remarks had an impact on him.
The teacher’s literal definitions of each term were what made the speech so fascinating. Simple definitions included the idea that a state was a group of towns divided by fictitious lines but united in purpose. The instructor continued by talking about more challenging ideas, like how the flag is a representation of freedom wherever it is flown with pride.
After defining these key terms, Red’s teacher asked the class to recite the promise. One can only speculate how their interpretation of the vow would have changed in light of their newly acquired knowledge.
Any nationalist would find inspiration in his speech. Red’s message is crystal clear. Knowledge is power. Our children need more than just reciting. They must understand the reasons behind why certain things are inviolably sacred and why things are the way they are. We won’t be able to produce independent-thinking adults any other way.
Please let your friends see Red Skelton’s performance if it moved you as well.
