Patriotism

Tomorrow is Independence Day!  The 4th of July!   It’s the day we celebrate the joy of living in America!!  It’s a day to think about the Fathers of our Country who came together and wrote the Declaration of Independence, and how they created a country all on it’s own, no longer tied, ruled, and taxed to England.     I admit that I am not a history buff and I probably should have listened a whole lot better in school when I was taught about our country’s beginning.   But this I know.  It all started in the year 1776.

But…    Many of your forefathers, your ancestors (and mine)  were not here back in 1776.   Many came here later, in search of a wonderful place to settle with a little piece of land, and with a hope of a peaceful life for their family.   Many first came from Europe.   Times were tough there then. Some were forced here from Africa.  Others arrived later from Asia.  And, as we know, many are now coming from Central America.

Since 1776 the US has been a country of immigrants.  Yes, I do remember my history book page with a cartoon of a ‘melting pot’ from an old newspaper – because that’s what America was.  Even back then.

So, when we stop each year and celebrate America on July 4th we must acknowledge that we have always been a diverse group, all here due to our history and circumstances.

Today I read a comment from a dear friend about the need for the return of patriotism.  I hope she doesn’t mind me bringing it up. But, it really struck me – because I wondered WHY she, and others, don’t feel we are not patriotic enough…or as patriotic as we used to be.  Why would she and some believe we don’t love this land?  Why would she and some believe we have lost something?

Just what is patriotism?

I googled the word.   I found:   Patriotism is a devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country. It’s an allegiance and loyalty to one’s country.

But, these days I think there has become another unofficial definition that is quite disturbing.  I think some people use the word, and think that being patriotic means you blindly accept the actions of the country.    And, that being patriotic means you are better than those who look at the country in a different way – or, maybe  that you have more of a right to be here.   It’s dangerous.   And, I think this way of thinking has been promoted by our president.

I admit I was hurt when my friend said we need more patriotism.  Because for me, my love of this country (and I love many, many things about it) includes the freedom we have to question, and our rights – to speak, to worship, to live under a democracy.   TO VOTE!!   We have to constantly watch that we don’t lose it… and right now I admit  I worry a little about it.

But, I worry  because I know how wonderful this place is!  It’s big geographically, and it’s amazingly diverse, and it’s full of resources, and the beauty found in nature all around our land is stunning.    I am devoted to America. I don’t want to live anywhere else!!  Really!  In this whole world!   I care about it’s people (even though I don’t understand them all).  I want our country to live in peace and I want it’s people to live side by side and accept each other.   For me, patriotism is living in a country I am proud of because it values so much.

Tomorrow I plan to take a few minutes to appreciate all the goodness of the United States of America.  (There will be plenty of other days to worry about the problems.)   I am very patriotic!   Yes I am!!     I love this country – and I am a lucky person to live in it.

Have a happy Independence Day!!   I hope you enjoy the cookouts, the fireworks, the time spent with family and friends!   YAY AMERICA!!