I don’t understand

I don’t understand why so many people hate me
Yet when things go wrong I’m the only one you see
You throw me down stomp on my face and even set me on fire
But I’m the very first one you call to get you out of the muck and mire
You mock me and spit on me then you toss me aside
For most only on special occasions do you show me off with pride
But still will I stand tall and cover you with all of my being
And fight for your rights against all the evil I keep seeing
For no matter how you treat me through thick and thin
Each time you knock me down I’ll get back up again
I welcome all who want to come and offer you my love
And I’m thankful for the ones who keep me flying up above
Please don’t think so little of me I’m not just an old rag
I am however a symbol of strength I am the AMERICAN flag.

-JOE GABLE