WNBA player Brittney Griner says the national anthem hits differently since returning from a Russian prison. Griner was once a protester and critic of the national anthem being played before sporting events. Anyone standing for the song can acknowledge that America is not perfect. But we should also recognize and celebrate the positive things about our nation, the freedom we have been given, and the privilege of living here.

So why does the song now hit differently for Griner? What is it that she realizes now, but didn’t in 2020? Could it be that she finally understands that the United States has a song and a flag that represent something unique that is not available in every other country? Freedom is worth fighting for, not against. American athletes should use their influence as a force for good and unity.