[Shiver Metimbers]

My restrained post responding to this Straw-Man argument was intended to be as respectful as possible to what was a non-responsive post. The merits of my original post, i.e. that Rapinoe et al. had improperly inserted their divisive politics into what should be an occasion for ALL Americans to pull together, were left completely unaddressed.

Instead, a veiled accusation of hypocrisy and a lecture on what the poster regarded as fundamental American values was pompously offered.

I've never understood those who are proud to be an American but then are unhappy when other Americans express their differing opinions.

To this, in a thread where fuller response is appropriate, I have these questions:

1. What, in any of my posts EVER, could induce anyone with a working brain cell to conclude that I am "proud to be an American" ??? Let me assure you, you know NOTHING of me and your "ass"umption is just that.

2. Where in my post did I object to ANYONE, Rapinoe included, having an opinion different from my own? In point of fact, I have not expressed any position pro, con or otherwise vis-a-vis her own, except to later note that hers is blatantly, self-evidently devoid of rational thought based on fact.

3. Did my post actually object or even address the substance of her "different opinion"? NO. The substance of her opinion was not in question, only the inappropriateness of her intentional broadly insulting and provocative method and timing of expressing an actually quite uninformed and hate-inspired opinion.

I'm pretty sure our country is founded on freedom and liberty rather than conformity and unity of thought.

Well, here we actually agree. Pity when some folks think that maxim as a spanking only applies when the opinion expressed, or the timing and manner of it, are called into question by other Americans who differ.

In other words, OK and YAY when K or R express disrespect for the country that made their opportunities so awesome, but BOO if someone else calls their timing, placement and/or manner of expression as churlish as it is. Bit of a Double Standard there.

It's clear that some folks subscribe to "Special Rules for Special People" not an "everyone is equal under the law" view.