Because playing for a team is not the same as pledging your life to a nation. JW believe that they can only pledge their life to Jehovah. Singing the national anthem is a form of that.Jeff B. wrote:I was unaware that JW's couldn't participate int he National Anthem. I'd question why he can then play for the National Team then?Texsquatch wrote:I found an old article about this particular player who says he cannot participate in the National Anthem because he is Jehova's Witness. I never heard of this before, but if that's what they have to do, I guess it's accepted. For the other players, if they're not Jehova's Witnesses, what excuse would they have?Texsquatch wrote:I was forced to watch part of the US vs Mexico soccer match last night. (oh how I hate soccer)
Anyway, the entire Mexican team sang their anthem very enthusiastically. Then, the camera scrolls down the US team and more were singing than I expected, but a couple didn't have their hands on their heart. The worst was one player with his head down, eyes closed, and hands clasped behind his back.
Maybe he was just getting into the zone or maybe it was political, but you could at least show proper respect when you're representing your country on a big stage as a member of the US National Team.
And, good for the Mexican Team. There's nothing wrong with pride in your country.
Jeff B.
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