As an American, I feel it is my solemn duty to blow something up today. After all, that's what we Americans do to celebrate our independence. Ironic? No, appropriate.
What is patriotism? For that matter, what is nationalism?
In the U.S., it seems that people have a very different meaning of both of these words. Patriotism is blind support. It is unquestioning belief that we are morally superior. It is bullsh*t.
I am not patriotic because I support a regime that has brought about the worst state of foreign policy in our nation's history. I am not nationalist because my "president" is sending his own citizens to a death for a monetary cause that has been shielded from their view. I am not patriotic because this regime believes that unilateral warmongering is our responsibility as a global hegemonic power.
No, I am patriotic because I am willing to question these things. I am nationalist because I offer criticisms I believe will make MY country better.
To this, I offer a Happy 4th. Our forefathers had it right. Question authority and affect change.
Flown by mariposa at 10:31 PM on July 04, 2004
I gotta respond! This is a GREAT post. You're ability to be upfront about your beliefs sets a difficult example for some.
