Bubbe's Place: Stories

Patriotism

When I was growing up it was stylish to be patriotic. In my elementary school I learned and sang wonderful patriotic hymns. All the students and teachers sang these love songs to America at every assembly. In addition, several times a year the school had elaborate patriotic festivals. (Memorial Day, Flag Day, Veterans' Day) The children dressed in red, white, and blue and carried flags. Patriotic poems were recited. Patriotic songs were sung. The ceremonies were held in the school yard. Mothers, fathers, relatives, and neighbors all attended. I was so proud to be an American.

Years later when I was teaching, the schools no longer had these ceremonies. On occasion we had assemblies were students saluted the flag and recited the pledge. It was not recited as often and certainly not with as much fervor. Times have changed. I am not sure that all the changes have been for the better. I see patriotism as a proactive expression, not as a negative signal. To be patriotic does not mean anti-immigrant or anti-world.

I am still patriotic. I display my flag on holidays. My heart beats faster when the flag is passing by. I always vote. I don't like it when I see Americans cavalier about America. I am disappointed that so few homes fly the flag on holidays. I hate it that so many Americans don't bother to vote. I don't believe that America or Americans are always right. I do believe that we can change wrong to right by our votes. (Attitudes changed in America on September 11, 2001. Once again it became popular to be patriotic.)