People talk about the Confederate flag like it was the official flag of the CSA. The `Confederate Flag` is actually the flag of the Army of Northern Virginia. It is the soldier's flag.  When you stop and dismiss the unsound symbolism associated with hate groups and see it for what it is, it is quite beautiful. The Stars and Bars connects me with my southern roots and heritage. I feel bad that others have the ugly misconceptions.  But, it is who I am.  I will never forget where I come from.  I am a descendant of Alexander Cleague (Clagg) from TN.  He traveled from PN building homes along the way.  People didn't have $$ to pay, so they paid in slaves. He taught them valuable tradecraft skills.  Many honored him by taking our name.  Many blacks with our name live today in SE TN. Many families suffered during Reconstruction.  I have reason to be bitter as my ancestors suffered from merciless carpetbaggers.  I chose to heal, move forward and forgive.