PATRIOTISM

The dictionary defines patriotism as “love for or devotion to one’s country”.  In America we have endless opportunities to express our patriotism in national and local commemorations, as well as privately, in manners of our own choosing.  The pride and love we feel for our country comes from a deeply seated emotional bonding that develops unconsciously over our lifetime.  Who has not experienced goose bumps when hearing the National Anthem, or God Bless America?  How often have we shed tears at the site of flag draped caskets carrying fallen soldiers back home to heartbroken loved ones? These deeply rooted emotional bonds provide the energy that fuels our celebratory parades, fire works, and music, and helps us create  red, white, and blue landscapes on our streets and homes.  And they do much more; they drive young men and women into military service, willing to make the ultimate sacrifice when the country they love is threatened.  Patriotism’s power is immense, and can find expression in many ways.

Although they may overlap, expressing our patriotism and acting on it are two different things.  There are some simple expressions that require little effort: bumper stickers and decals that claim support for our troops, similar signage on buildings and windows, and American flags on our homes or in our yards.  Then there are acts of patriotism that require much more of us.  Although service in the military or other national service programs are not available to all of us, others are. Participating in civic affairs and making an effort to become an informed voter are acts of patriotism. 

There is some flag waving that I consider adolescent.  The adolescent patriot bears the signs that read – My country, love it or leave it, and My country, right or wrong, or, This is America, speak English.  He or she adamantly believes in the concept of American Exceptionalism, and demeans anyone who speaks critically of our country.   He will not abide anyone who “disrespects” the American flag, and bristles at the notion of having to apologize for any of America’s actions or policies.  As sincere and heartfelt as these beliefs are, they do a disservice to America.

In contrast, there are the mature patriots, who recognize their responsibility as citizens to address America’s shortcomings as well as her greatness.  They understand that before a problem can be corrected it must first be acknowledged. They work quietly, without a great deal of fanfare, and are not interested in drawing attention to themselves. Recognizing that America is part of a global community and that our country is not perfect, and not “the best” in everything, the mature patriot is willing to admit, and apologize for America’s errors.  

Our pride in all that is great about America is not diminished by a willingness to face her flaws and her mistakes.  Our quest for greatness can begin with the humble acknowledgement that as members of a global community we share equally in God’s grace.  To be exceptional in this community, we must act exceptionally, and we cannot do this if we remain blinded to our shortcomings.