Redefining Patriotism

Okay, I'll admit it. I have become patriotic. A word that just a few months ago I would never use to describe myself. In fact, I would most likely grimace at being labeled patriotic and deny such an accusation. The word evoked the taste of slimy Fourth of July potato salad and conjured up images of unquestioning citizens waving American flags. But as I've watched the events of the current election unfold, I have found a new respect, even love, for my country - redefining how I see patriotism.

For the past eight years, I have felt powerless - unable to change or challenge the decisions of my government. As a citizen I came to the conclusion that nothing I could say or do would ever impact the choices of the Bush Administration. And this deeply discouraged me. How could I be a patriot when I fundamentally disagreed with the actions of my country and felt unheard by my leaders?

Somehow I had accepted someone else's notion that patriotism meant blindly endorsing the decisions of our leaders. That the word "patriot" is reserved only for those who automatically supported our country's invasion of Iraq, who were not bothered as the government stripped away citizen's constitutional freedoms. But this is not a patriot.

Over the last few months I have discovered my own definition of patriotism as my feelings of powerlessness have begun to shift. With the current presidential elections, I have an opportunity to transform the country by putting in a leader who represents my beliefs and opinions. Being able to finally enact change inspires and motivates me. Right now I feel part of democracy in action, a concerned citizen passionately fighting for the future of America. I am a patriot... and in no way does it evoke the taste of slimy potato salad.

Every four years, our country allows citizens this period of change - where we have the power to elect our next leader, choosing a new future for our nation. It is the revolutionary idea of giving power to the people that inspired our forefathers (and mothers) to break away from England. It is an idea that changed the world. And now, seeing it work successfully inspires me to actually call myself a patriot.

The election may not be what inspires you, but each of us can find something that we love about America that transcends its imperfections and leaders, each of us can live by our own definitions of patriotism.

Comments

[arkgrfx61]

Dear Lulu,

I agree with your idea of patriotism.
It's the idea that you can't stand idly by and watch the country you love get flushed down the toilet by a group of power hungry con men.
I believe that when this regime is over, the next president (O) will have a tough time on their hands. It will take at least 8 years to undo the damage that has been done by King George...however, I believe that when these 8 years are up - from here on out the world will be a much more peaceful place. I for one am very excited to be a part of this monumental era in history.