The Inspiration Nation

This time last year, I read Frederick Douglass' famous speech, "The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro."  It's a recurrent theme in American politics, this idea of freedom for her citizens.

When we talk about notions of freedom and citizenry, inevitably other profound issues also come up, like nationhood, politics, privilege, and now more than ever, what it means to be patriotic in its many forms.

Whatever your views on these, and however they play out in your life and your conversations today (and any day), I wanted to share with you (perhaps you've already heard it) Marvin Gaye's live rendition of The Star Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States of America.

It's the most beautiful rendition I've ever heard.