I'm not Deb but I will try anyway to answer this

this is a phenomena that always puzzles me. does any other country do it? I really don't know if other countries have something similar as I have only lived in the US. Does Canda, Britian and Australia say things like "God save the queen? Don't know if that's the same thing tho. what would happen if someone refused to pledge allegiance? Basically, nothing. It is not mandatory. When I was a child, it was the first thing we said each day in class. It had no meaning at all, it was just part of our routine.


what if you dont believe in god? do you still have to say the words or can you miss bits out? You can just stand there if you want or you can leave words out if you want. I equate it with singing the Star Spangled Banner at event. I cannot sing. My kids once said I sound like a sick cow. So I lip-sync or mumble under my breathe.

what if your country is taking a stance that you don't agree with? is unquestioning swearing allegiance of any value?
Saying the Pledge is not saying you agree with everything your country does or says. I think we are a great country but nowhere near perfect. We have many political parties that all disagree with each other but they all feel they are doing what's right for this country, a country they believe in. Hope this helps somewhat.