21 Feb 2018 What Is Patriotism?

What Is Patriotism?

During 4^th of July it is the big day of parades, fireworks and neighborhood get-togethers. You will also see a lot of the flags displayed. In my neighborhood, someone goes around and sticks one or two small flags in everyone’s yard.

I am not one to display my patriotism. I have no problem whatsoever if someone else does. However, do not judge my level of patriotism because I don’t fly a flag or sing the national anthem or site the Pledge of Allegiance.

Those has zero to do with how much I care for the country. To me, a good measure of how patriotic someone is would be how far they would go to defend the First Amendment. That is, would you defend the right for someone to say things that are offensive to you? You might find it offensive, but others may not.

The important point to emphasize here is what the person said, not what actions they may take. For example, someone of the Islamic faith may say that Shari Law is the best foundation for a set of rules. I would defend that person’s right to say that. Now if that person took action to try to implement Shari Law, they would have no fiercer adversary than me. Saying is one thing, action on it is a whole lot different.

Let’s look at another scenario. Say someone came into a business establishment and they were wearing clothing from the Middle East. If someone in the business said something negative about that person say on the lines of “can’t that foreigner dress like us?” What would you do? A patriot would confront the bigoted loudmouth and ask why they would say that. Not getting violent with the bigot but standing up to him. A non-patriot would look the other way or just leave. Doing the right thing is what I feel is patriotic. It is all in your actions.

Most people in the US live in a secure bubble. They take freedom for granted. I truly believe people would defend the freedoms this country more if they would go to another country and see what life is like without a Bill of Rights. They would also see just how desperate people who live under a dictatorship want basic freedom.

So, when the 4th of July rolls around or any other day, please take a moment to be grateful for the life you are able to lead in a country that has basic freedoms. Also, remember that citizens of the US come from all over the globe. They may dress or have accents that differ from yours but don’t miss judge their patriotism until you see actions that can bring that into question. Embrace them and help strengthen what makes freedom great.

If someone chooses to not have outward displays of patriotism, don’t judge them either until actions prove otherwise.