PATRIOTISM

On this Fourth of July it seems fitting to address patriotism versus anti-patriotism. First of all I think we must define patriotism.

Is it blindly following the president no matter what he does and defending his actions against any and all critics? Is it being against anyone who does not fit in this patriotic mold that the administration has formed and calling them anti-American? Is it being in favor of an illegal war even though we were taken into it with lies on top of lies? Is it saying that you support the troops, but are in favor of not sending them enough armor-covered vehicles, or reducing their benefits for fighting in the war? Is it waving the flag?

Or is it standing up to the government against its war policies – against its power grab – against its uncontrollable greed? Is it wanting to put “bring the boys back home” as a top priority? Is it wanting to bring the Constitution back to life? Is it wanting a government “of the people, by the people and for the people” instead of one that shifts the cost of government onto the shoulders of the poor and middle class? Is it standing by silently, doing nothing while our beloved country becomes a bully to all the world, rejecting allies in favor of Empire building?

The Bush America of today bears little resemblance to the America of my youth. The America of my youth was a kinder and more loving America. Even then we had massive power, but we didn’t use it nor did we threaten to use it. Some called us the Sleeping Giant. We were an America that wanted to be liked by everyone.

The dictionary says patriotism is “devoted love, support and defense of one’s country; national loyalty”.

Back in those days of my youth, we ALL had that kind of patriotism. And when we were attacked in 1941 by the Japanese, we all went to war. Movie actors put their careers on hold and joined the service. Senators and their sons enlisted, as did the rest of America. Those who couldn’t serve did their share at home. Everyone was in that fight.

In that war we were all behind our government.

The California Curmudgeon.