To the editor:

I am not a prejudiced person either. I do not have a problem with immigrants. I feel proud that people want to come to America for hope of a better future for their families. I would probably do the same in their shoes.

I do not have a problem with English/Spanish instructions, I do not even have a problem with “for Spanish, press 2.” But when I read about a Spanish version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” I couldn’t believe my eyes. Is there a country in this world that would accept its national anthem being sung in a language other than what it was written? I sincerely doubt it. Any country would find that offensive. Yes, we are all human and all breathe the same air, but if I was to sing a nation’s anthem other than my own, I would respect them enough to sing it in that country’s language.

I am proud to call myself an American and feel very lucky to have lived here my entire life. This song is sacred, special and dear to the hearts of Americans, even though a lot of them do not know all of the lyrics. Think about how you feel when it is sung and the reason we celebrate each Fourth of July.

Please leave the anthem alone, and the next time you hear it, don’t be afraid to stand up and place your hand over your heart and remember how special that song is.

Kaprelle Bradley,

Lawrence