Reading my posts makes me aware how cynical and negative they appear. This brings up the question of patriotism. Are criticisms unpatriotic? Does one have to be positive to be patriotic? Does one have to be militaristic to be patriotic? Does one have to stand, put hand over heart and sing along with the national anthem? Or is one only honoring tradition by performing the above? Or, is a person patriotic by desiring things to be better?
Arguments have been made that serving in the Vietnam Conflict was more patriotic than opposing the conflict. That's a tough one. Is honoring those who served or those who opposed it patriotic? Is support of the opposition to the war patriotic? Is support of aggressive actions in the Middle East to ensure our energy sources patriotic? I'm not sure.
Is being critical of the political process unpatriotic? I'm suggesting it is not unpatriotic. In fact, I'm suggesting being critical furthers the political process in that it creates positive discussion. One can post only positive thoughts but does that promote discussion? If criticism is negative, I'll continue to be negative.
Is this article by Michael Gerson an unpatriotic, negative, critical article or a necessary critique of our current administration?
I think I will leave the posting of positive thoughts to the reverent and I'll continue critically prodding the politicians.
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