You’re getting this email as we’re flying back home after a year away.
Is Old Stars and Stripes flying right now on your front porch? Do you love a good parade? A larger question, would you give your life for your country? Do you raise your hand over your heart when the national anthem comes on?
For me, the answer is “no” to all of those. My guess is it I was from a military family or was partnered to someone in the military or some form of government, maybe even a politician, I’d be more patriotic. Maybe?
What about you?
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I like Holly's distinction between "patriotic" and "nationalistic". As a naturalized citizen, I took an oath to serve the country when called upon.
I've often wondered about the phrase "proud to be American". Can I be proud of something I was born into? That would have been "proud to be German" in my case. Does that raise different associations? To be clear, "proud to be German" was not a phrase one would have heard when I grew up. It's different now. Why? Germany's history hasn't changed.
These are such good points, Fabian! I read your comment and think "when it is ok at be proud to be (of a certain nationality) and when is it not?" Because clearly some actions are not ones to be proud of (Jan 6 2021 comes to mind) and some actions are (probably have to Google for an example!). And of course, yes, history doesn't change but people do and we forget. Thanks for this comment
I grapple with this question and it made me think a lot about loyalty in general. I think I am somewhat patriotic in the context of loyalty and hope, but I am certainly not unrealistic or nationalistic.
I like your answer, Holly. I especially resonate with the idea of linking patriotism to hope. I hope there is space for all kinds of people in the US, for example. Thanks for sharing your grappling here.
I have so much respect for all our veterans, but especially those who served in Vietnam. So grateful for your brother’s service, June. And Happy 4th to you!
I like Holly's distinction between "patriotic" and "nationalistic". As a naturalized citizen, I took an oath to serve the country when called upon.
I've often wondered about the phrase "proud to be American". Can I be proud of something I was born into? That would have been "proud to be German" in my case. Does that raise different associations? To be clear, "proud to be German" was not a phrase one would have heard when I grew up. It's different now. Why? Germany's history hasn't changed.
These are such good points, Fabian! I read your comment and think "when it is ok at be proud to be (of a certain nationality) and when is it not?" Because clearly some actions are not ones to be proud of (Jan 6 2021 comes to mind) and some actions are (probably have to Google for an example!). And of course, yes, history doesn't change but people do and we forget. Thanks for this comment
I grapple with this question and it made me think a lot about loyalty in general. I think I am somewhat patriotic in the context of loyalty and hope, but I am certainly not unrealistic or nationalistic.
I like your answer, Holly. I especially resonate with the idea of linking patriotism to hope. I hope there is space for all kinds of people in the US, for example. Thanks for sharing your grappling here.
Not patriotic at all, esp with this president 🤯
I feel you, Sarah.
I am very patriotic. We fly an American Flag out front of our home. My brother fought in Viet Nam. I was raised to respect our country.
I have so much respect for all our veterans, but especially those who served in Vietnam. So grateful for your brother’s service, June. And Happy 4th to you!