imagine a piece of colored fabric on a pole

not very powerful objects you might think

but if they are of a certain shape and color they can

instill patriotism to an entire nation

be a symbol of pride freedom

announce a pending attack by pirates

declare a total surrender in battle

signal an infringement in a soccer match

locate the position of underwater scuba divers

stop an American football game for a penalty

strike fear over those conquered in battle

show a supporter’s allegiance to his favorite sporting team

mark the hole on a golf course

signal the end of a motor sports race

declare a beach unsafe for swimmers

inspire men to lay down their lives in war

be the focus of a remembrance ceremony

honor the passing of somebody

advertise a product or service

communicate by semaphore

a flag is so powerful yet its only a piece of colored fabric on a pole