True Patriotism (In The Us)

A flag, for example, is much more than a piece of cloth. A blank piece of cloth, or one with random markings has no value or meaning, but a flag is a symbol of unity and solidarity amongst a people group. The American flag, for example, is a symbol of both the struggle of the struggle for independence and the unity of the United States today. The thirteen stripes symbolizes the struggle for freedom of the original 13 colonies. Each stripe is a symbol of the blood, sweat, and tears of thousands of brave men and women who showed patriotism by risking their money, possessions, family, and social status for the freedom and unity of their country. Each of the 50 stars represents the modern day patriots, who sacrifice their time, energy, and sometimes even their lives for the fellow members of their communities.

Much in the same way, the American national anthem also depicts patriotism. The anthem is written from the point of view of one who really cares about and loves his country. Francis Scott Key, when writing the Star Spangled Banner eloquently shared with the rest of the world his undying love and admiration for his country. An anthem is more than a song- it is a rallying point for a people group. The reason why many people cry, or at least feel a feeling of loyalty to their country after hearing its national anthem is that an anthem signifies the years of hard work, unity, and acts of patriotism of their country’s peoples. In essence, the American national anthem is a celebration of the American people and the United States itself, which is why it’s a symbol of patriotism.

The Fourth of July is also a celebration; it commemorates the struggle and bravery of the founding fathers and their peers in establishing the fledgling republic of the United States of America in a time of violent uncertainty. At a time where their ideas were new and untested, the Founding Fathers decided that it would be the best for their country to start a new country based on their ideas rather than sticking with the old, established system. They risked their livelihoods and reputations when they declared independence from the old, tyrannical system in order to start a new government that they believed would be best for their country

In the end, I realized that I had an innate sense of true patriotism. While not thinking of the true definition of patriotism, I thought of symbols that truly represented it. The American flag, the national anthem, and the Fourth of July all represent patriotism in its truest and highest form. I also realized that people are not born into patriots, that it’s not just some people who are set aside to be patriots. Anyone and everyone can become a patriot. A person can show love for and devotion to their country in many ways, from the little things like gardening for ones elderly neighbor to fighting on the front lines in Iraq as a marine. Most importantly, I realized that it’s not just some people who are patriots. Patriotism is in everyone, and I challenge you to be a patriot.