Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Search "patriotism" :
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Main Entry: pa·tri·ot·ism
Pronunciation: \pā-trē-a-ti-zam, chiefly British pa-\
Function: noun
Date: circa 1726
: love for or devotion to one's country
LOVE or DEVOTION , hmmm
sounds like a marraige.
Are we really married to our country, I guess love it or leave it? RIGHT?
That is my question. Do you have to love or have devotion to one's country to be a true Patriot?
Does someone have to be patriotic to be a good citizen?? OR does it take a good citizen to be patriotic?
Wait a second...
OK, 9/11 - What did it mean to be Patriotic? Fly a flag :)
Remember the Patriot Act - is that what Patriotism is?? Seeing what your neighbor was reading at the library...
So, I guess Patriotism changes with time.. In 2004, if you were against the Iraq war you were classified as UN Patriotic. So, a Patriot is one who gives BLIND devotion to the leader of the country? I dont think so..
Last year, I admit I had little Love or Devotion for this country with Bush and Cheney at the helm, SO was I less Patriotic? However, that has changed, so am I now more patriotic, while Republicans are less? That is what they said we were....I am confused.
Kids in class everyday say the Pledge of Allegiance. Why do kids have to say the Pledge Allegiance? Isn't that a form of brainwashing, a form or Indoctrinization? Does the Pledge make you a better citizen?
I know what your thinking, when those same kids get to college they can think on their own.. Hmmm interesting point, but what if they don't get to college, what if they are stuck in x_town and that is all they will ever know? What cable news (if any) do they get and who is on their radio? What will this kid growing up thinking patriotism is?
THE BOTTOM LINE IS: Patriotism is more than a saying or a missile or a flag or a song or an act... It is trying to Make Things Right.
Yes for HUMANITY...For your fellow man, your fellow HUMAN BEING.