Patriotism is defined as having respect, loyalty, a sense of dignity, pride, and most importantly, love towards your country. The United States of America is home to hundreds of millions of people, each with a unique cultural background. While we share different ancestors, ethnicities, and genetics, we all have one crucial factor in common; we all live in the United States of America. America is a country containing many immigrants and people who have come seeking a better life and more opportunity for themselves and their family. People living in America can celebrate their cultural traditions, stay true to their heritage, and have the freedom to worship whomever they please. While keeping true to their ethnic background is understandable, I believe that everyone who lives in America should fly the American flag proudly. They should not look at themselves as different from those around them because of their culture, but should instead realize we are all Americans and should honor and respect our great country.
Unfortunately, some people do not agree with this perspective. In the most recent news, NFL player Colin Kaepernick made headlines by refusing to stand for the national anthem. As football season began on the 15th anniversary of 9/11, other players also took a knee instead of standing for the “Star Spangled Banner.” These incidents are clearly not characteristic of a patriot. Some people today target our policemen and soldiers, labeling them as racist and power-hungry. Others make a mockery out of important American historical figures, dishonoring and discrediting them. In what could be considered an act of terrorism, some people tear, draw on, stomp on, or even burn our American flag. These appalling people have no problem taking advantage of America and its unique freedoms, yet most likely have no idea the price our founders paid to earn them.
Before the United States of America was even created, there was a belief that a land free from English rule could exist. There was hope of a new government, a new way of life, and a new country. Colonists of the 1700’s desperately clung onto and believed in this one small glimmer of hope; that one day there would be a free nation like no other. Finally the time came to make their dream a reality. For eight long years, determined men and women fought in and contributed to the Revolutionary War. Thousands of people died fighting for their hope and dream, a free America. Finally, their dreams came true as England surrendered to the strong-willed and courageous colonists. Not long after, the United States of America was created; founded by a people who were unbelievably proud and patriotic of their unique and well-deserved nation.
Today, we still have people fighting for America, its rights and freedoms, and each and every one of its citizens. Our soldiers, veterans, and policemen love America enough to undergo the horrors of war and uphold the rule of law. Exhibiting the sincerest form of patriotism, they bravely sacrifice themselves and their happiness because they love America and what it stands for. Being patriotic is truly a great characteristic to possess. When you are proud of your nation’s founders and history, respectful towards your protectors, and dearly love your country, you are genuinely patriotic; and that is something to be proud of. Patriotism today unfortunately is not as pervasive as it should be. Perhaps more people should read about our history, meet soldiers and veterans, or visit a country with limited rights and freedoms in order to realize how lucky they truly are. Quite simply put, if you are proud of disrespecting our flag, dishonoring America and its fallen heroes, “badmouthing” the United States, and overall being unpatriotic, feel free to leave our United States of America.