What is takes to be a Patriot in America Today

Keith Burns

Age 18

 

It takes certain types of people to be patriots in America today.  We are a nation of variety and because of that, no race can be solely identified with this great nation.  No gender should be masked to it as well.  These patriots should simply be open-minded, fair, and believe in the American ways all 365 days of the year.

            An American patriot does not hang an American flag on his possessions, then run out and assault someone due to their appearance or beliefs.  The mounting of the American flag is a nice gesture.  It symbolizes peace, unity, and understanding within our country.  These are nice words, but can only be words unless you believe in them; otherwise the flag is no more than a colorful piece of cloth.  It is much harder for one to be an American patriot.

            You must believe in the American dreams that, like hands, clench so tight to our flag to take them off would leave nothing but a torn rag ripped from the fists that would not unclench, because they are believed so strongly by so many.  American ways are about tolerance, respect for yourself and others, as well as freedom; that you can have Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

            What I ask is that you all become patriots in America today.  Do not look at the Start Spangled Banner as an inconvenience when you are at your locker.  Show a little bit more respect toward others different from you.  We must not just do these patriotic things on holidays or times under attack, but always.

            After the recent tragedies in America, heroes have come out, and come together to unify this country.  They have put aside all that is petty and replaced it with what is just.  Americans have shown that we are a free nation that we will fight in order to protect ourselves, and keep ourselves free.  A country full of heroes trying to preserve the union.  Now if you believe in all that I said, then don’t we all have the ability to be heroes too?