I would disagree with many of the opinions I've seen here, that the flag of a nation does not in anyway symbolise the heart of the nation. I will use Canada as an example. The nation consists of it's people, all of whom disagree on many different things, have many different opinions, and are separated by differences and prejudices based on being from different cities or provinces, their upbringing, their religions, their beliefs. With 35 million different people, there are 35 million opinions, feelings, and worldviews which are extremely different and diverse.
However, when the Maple Leaf is flying, when O Canada is being sung, there is only one opinion, one feeling, and that is of love for not just Canada, but for each other. To remind us that though we are all different as individuals, we are all the same as Canadians, and are never truly alone. The flag, national anthem, these are widely recognised symbols which most of us agree on and are united by. That's why the flag is so important, it isn't about a piece of cloth. It's about the collective love for one another being represented by something physical we can all see and touch. It represents everything we have accomplished, and everything every Canadian loves about Canada. It is the physical manifestation of the nation. And remember, the nation is not a place on a map, it is a unity among people, a shared project, a shared vessel for our dreams and worldviews and opinions. All 35 million people, and those who respect Canada's vision of multiculturalism, of peacekeeping, of diplomacy, of respecting and helping others, the physical manifestation of that is a piece of cloth you can get for 5$. But it is not a rag.
