Before a person can choose who they think is an ideal patriot, we must first define what patriotism is then proceed from there. It’s impossible to define the term patriotism without looking at the heart of a patriot. Today’s patriotic American believes they live in the most blessed country in the world. Blessed because of the good we do on a global scale, because of the role we play in the world we live in. It is good, not our power, that makes us proud to be Americans. Deep in the heart of the true patriot, we pray that we will be a blessing to others, not that we receive blessings for ourselves. Uninformed people would interpret that to show low self-esteem. But the truth be told, it actually shows the right balance of healthy esteem. Not prideful overindulgence, but the overflow of a grateful heart.
Patriotism is so much more than frantic outbursts of flag-waving enthusiasm. It’s a deeply heartfelt emotion that inspires a sense of unity that is of vital importance to the strength of a nation. If patriotism can be described as “love of country”, then we must defend what we love from outside influences that cause us harm. Defense of the country has to play a major roll in our definition of patriotism. Defenders of our freedom must have our respect and support to continue to feel the loyalty that we need from them when we call upon them to fight to preserve our freedom. We take pride in our armed forces, not because they are powerful, but because they are our sons and daughters.
Another important aspect of the definition of patriotism is caring for our citizens. If we love our country and defend our freedom, the natural next step has to care for the people who inhabit the country and enjoy the freedom that is so hard-won and harder sustained. These and other aspects of patriotism give us powerful insight into the heart of the American society that has found a way to be governed “by the people” and “for the people” with the U.S. Constitution as our guide, which is arguably the greatest blueprint for human survival in the world. With all the negativity the media and many politicians tend to focus on, patriotism can get lost in all the noise.
The above is who comes to my mind as a patriotic American. Who comes to your mind as a patriotic American? How do you define patriotism?
