A patriotic friend suggested, “Norm, why don’t you write about the proper way to display the American flag?” Patriotism in general is a great subject for 2008, an election year.
Patriot: “One who loves, supports and defends his country and its interests with devotion.” That might include most of our officials, many of the rich and famous, and most ordinary Americans. But there are those who piously contend to be patriotic while condemning our military, our form of government and our country and who pander to anti-Americans here and abroad. They do this while enjoying the freedom and protection of the most powerful, affluent, and benevolent country in history. Hollywood’s latest betrayal of America is said by critics to be the film Redacted. No! I won’t see it.
Don’t get me wrong. Constructively criticizing our government’s policies is patriotism at its best. But when we are at war and the survival of our troops and country is at stake, real patriots put that aside to collectively defend America until we win!
Perhaps a little Grade School Government - 101 will help. Organization (government) is necessary to avoid chaos and get us all going in the same direction. Those chosen by the majority are never perfect, but until the next election (2008), we are supposed to civilly debate how to improve, whom to remove, and who will lead us next.
In the interim, even if they disagree the “loyal minority” should support and defend our leaders and our country. Patriotism is demonstrated by patience, sacrifice, and loyalty, not political tantrums that endanger everyone.
The way I see it: 1. YOU CANNOT BE AN AMERICAN PATRIOT IF: 1. You lie and talk trash about our government, country, or our troops. 2. You are an elected American servant, but what you do and say appeals to those who would destroy us. 3. Capitalism made you rich and famous but you advocate socialism and use your status to embolden our enemies by spewing anti-American hatred. 4. You fail to vote, or you use unlawful, disruptive tactics to make your point. Those folks can pretend if they wish but such traitorous activities have nothing to do with the betterment or preservation of America.
True patriotism also includes proper display of Old Glory. A synopsis of the voluminous U.S. Code (rules for display) might suffice: Fly our flag only from sunrise to sunset unless it is illuminated at night. Use an adequate pole and don’t let the flag touch the ground, get soiled or tattered. Don’t wear it, use it for advertising, or other disrespectful decoration. Even a part of the flag falls under these rules, so I’ll take back the Stars and Stripes banner I gave to a patriotic friend for her auto antennae.
One phone call to American Self Storage of Palmdale resulted in replacement of a tattered flag in time for Veteran’s Day. We salute them and those of you who are true patriots!
“Change” seems to be the theme of at least one party for the coming election. Constructive change is good and necessary but remember, we have been doing a lot of the right things for a long time and they have made us great!
This is The Way I See It!
NJ
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