A retired Army officer reflects on what America’s 250th birthday should remind us about patriotism, constitutional duty, and the oath that outlasts every president.
To those of us who think like you, the flag is not a prop. To Trumpians, it is. The question for today is how do we regain our past, because an alternate reality is what we’re living in now.
Yes, Martha; thank you. Because of the tub-thumping perversion of patriotism, we have a generation or two who very much are not MAGA -- but want to see a more just U.S. and a more just world -- unknowing of or rejecting the very notion of patriotism. These people have to be reclaimed. The purpose of America has not changed, despite those who would warp our country, and we might hope to see that purpose once again given the prominence and dedication it deserves.
Thank you, Martha. You have penned a moving essay that speaks to what true patriotism and fidelity to our Constitution and flag mean. Sadly, many in our society too often mistake nationalism for patriotism. Patriotism embraces love for our democratic ideals and the lawful exercise of our civic responsibilities and duties. Nationalism drips with symbols and props celebrating the nation's so-called greatness, power and dominance. Nationalism is, however, devoid of genuine respect for the incredibly wise system of democratic government that our forefathers created. It proclaims a higher authority, the caudillo and/or a deity. However, at the end of the day, nationalism aspires to force and coercion wrapped in self-defeating hubris and reckless pride, as we observe in Trump's "war on a whim" with Iran. Today we rightly celebrate America's quarter millennium milestone, recommitting ourselves to the values and ideals embedded so wisely in our Constitution...as tomorrow we reengage in our civic duty to right the ship of state.
Thank you Martha for this post. I have felt anger when I see how theMAGA desecrates the flag. You would think that those who have served but sadly became MAGA would know better but they are so obedient to drumpf they do not respect the flag or the military anymore.
Now there are some “fireworks” going off in my heart ❤️🎇. Thank you, Martha! I always felt safer when you were on duty! I cannot help but grieve for this moment, for all the brave and selfless people who gave all for our country and in the name of freedom. Recognizing that we have much more work ahead, and reinforcing the values we hold to be self-evident, for ALL people and for this planet we all call home. 🌎🇺🇸🧡💙💜🩵💚🖤🤎💛❤️
To those of us who think like you, the flag is not a prop. To Trumpians, it is. The question for today is how do we regain our past, because an alternate reality is what we’re living in now.
Well said. First time I saw him hug the flag, I nearly threw up.
Thank you — a very timely reminder of what we stand for, especially today.
Yes, Martha; thank you. Because of the tub-thumping perversion of patriotism, we have a generation or two who very much are not MAGA -- but want to see a more just U.S. and a more just world -- unknowing of or rejecting the very notion of patriotism. These people have to be reclaimed. The purpose of America has not changed, despite those who would warp our country, and we might hope to see that purpose once again given the prominence and dedication it deserves.
Thank you, Martha. You have penned a moving essay that speaks to what true patriotism and fidelity to our Constitution and flag mean. Sadly, many in our society too often mistake nationalism for patriotism. Patriotism embraces love for our democratic ideals and the lawful exercise of our civic responsibilities and duties. Nationalism drips with symbols and props celebrating the nation's so-called greatness, power and dominance. Nationalism is, however, devoid of genuine respect for the incredibly wise system of democratic government that our forefathers created. It proclaims a higher authority, the caudillo and/or a deity. However, at the end of the day, nationalism aspires to force and coercion wrapped in self-defeating hubris and reckless pride, as we observe in Trump's "war on a whim" with Iran. Today we rightly celebrate America's quarter millennium milestone, recommitting ourselves to the values and ideals embedded so wisely in our Constitution...as tomorrow we reengage in our civic duty to right the ship of state.
Thank you Martha for this post. I have felt anger when I see how theMAGA desecrates the flag. You would think that those who have served but sadly became MAGA would know better but they are so obedient to drumpf they do not respect the flag or the military anymore.
Now there are some “fireworks” going off in my heart ❤️🎇. Thank you, Martha! I always felt safer when you were on duty! I cannot help but grieve for this moment, for all the brave and selfless people who gave all for our country and in the name of freedom. Recognizing that we have much more work ahead, and reinforcing the values we hold to be self-evident, for ALL people and for this planet we all call home. 🌎🇺🇸🧡💙💜🩵💚🖤🤎💛❤️
Thank you Martha
Great reminder.