There's the country of America, which you have to defend, but there's also the idea of America. America is more than just a country, it's an idea. An idea that's supposed to be contagious.-- Bono.
Apologies to you non US'ers this week - we seem to have an America/patriot theme going on. My dad is a Vietnam Vet and I grew up in a house with some very strong opinions about freedom, what is worth fighting for and how to treat those who fight. Barb can attest that I am prone to fits of tears around American Legion personnel. Mostly because I am proud. Proud that I live in a country that faces up to its challenges (and challengers) and is willing to take a hard look at itself. I love that I live in a place where freedom from popular ideas exists.
I hope the idea of America is contagious - that people in their hearts believe in its freedoms, and values even as we sometimes look inwards to see how we are living up to those ideals.
Happy fireworks and hot dogs. Happy picnics and neighborhood parties. Happy Birthday (tomorrow) America.
Secret Agent Man
2 comments:
great quote! as i sat in church sunday, i thought about how lucky i am to be able to practice my religion w/o the fear of being persecuted or harmed while doing so. that is something we should never take for granted!
simply stated and beautiful...i am proud to be an american and proud of our soldiers!! AMEN!
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