My students have to blog about Patriotism today. Since I never ask students to do something that I wouldn't do, I'm going to voice my opinion on Patriotism.
After 9/11/2001, I was angry at those who tried to destroy America and those who spoke against America, I told them I'd buy them a one-way plane ticket to another country. Even though we might not agree with everything happening in America, it is still the BEST and the MOST FREE country in the world. I did what others did- I bought car magnets supporting our troops, flag magnets supporting our country, and even started praying more for those who protect us.
But knowing about Patriotism is different from living it.I have learned a great deal about Patriotism since my younger son enlisted in the ARMY a few years ago. Up until then, I just went thru the motions- saying the pledges, holding my hand over my heart when the national anthem was played, and bowing my head when prayers were said at events I went to. I know now that what I was doing was NOT Patriotism...it was just a routine. I didn't listen to the words of the national Anthem or God Bless America.
I now have a TALL flagpole in my front yard- it was built by my husband in support of our son. Everytime I look at the flag, I pray for those who have sacrificed and are still sacrificing for us today. I have had many students sho enlisted in the militarty. Only ONE has not made it back so far. Sgt. Michael Shank was killed in Afghanistan. When I hear the National Anthem being sung and played, I sing...and I listen to the words...they have a deeper meaning for me than they did 10 years ago.
I realize now the sacrifices that our men and women make so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we have here in America. They take the fight elsewhere so that war is not on our land. Sons and daughters leave their families, mothers and fathers leave their kids, parents of those in the military send them off to do their jobs, not knowing when they will see their children again, if ever. As a parent, that is the hardest thing...to go without seeing your children for months at a time. They are on their own and you can't be there for them, you can't help them like you could when they were little. You're not there to hug the hurt that they go thru...yes, sometimes it's a helpless feeling...but it is overcome by PRIDE. I am SO proud of my son and daughter-in-law, just as I am SO proud of all the students, friends, and family who made the military their choice. I can never thank them enough for the job they do...but I have found ways to show my Patriotism...I found a place on the internet where I can Buy A Joe for a Joe...a cup of coffee...and I have received replies from those soldiers who have been able to just walk in a get a cup of coffee that they didn't have to pay for. I have sent care packages to those overseas. I proudly say the pledges each and every day. And I do a lot more praying for those in service. When I see someone in uniform, I tell them Thank You. When I see an exstudent, I hug them and thank them...
We all have different opinions on what Patriotism is...as we grow older and wiser, our opinions change. I am much more patriotic than I was years ago, and I will continue to support our military and be thankful I am in America!
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