Fact #01: America has earned its mixed reputation.

While the government of the United States has indeed been a beacon of generosity and forthrightness over the years (and while far more individual Americans have done the same, often to en even greater degree), the reputation of America remains a justifiably tainted one. In essence, no matter where I have gone or to whom I have spoken outside the boundaries of the U.S., the theme has remained remarkably consistent: Americans are loved for their openness & overall joviality, while America & its “leaders” are scoffed at, ridiculed, or even downright despised.

The average American may not understand why this is the case, and yet even a casual glance at the actions (& more frequently, the inactions) of our current government, coupled with only a slightly longer gaze at the oft-sordid tale that is American foreign policy since the days of Teddy Roosevelt, will have even the most deluded right-wing patriot comprehending the rest of the world’s ire.

To be a Great Nation, a country must behave gracefully with according greatness, and — at least for the last fifty years or so, the United States has failed to do so far more often than not.

Note that I am NOT advocating hatred towards the American government with this post; merely reminding the American people that the ship on which they sail is not nearly as pristine or as peaceful as their captains have led them to believe — and that, should they choose to pull their heads out of the patriotic sands that still fill their ears and eyes (and hearts), there is still time to right the ship and set sail for legacies far more fitting their country’s grand beginnings.

Amen … Let it be so.

“Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty.” ~ Teddy Roosevelt

“I love America more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually.” ~ James Baldwin

“A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government.” ~ Edward Abbey

“The greatest patriotism is to tell your country when it is behaving dishonorably, foolishly, or viciously.” ~ Julian Barnes

Filed under: Purifying Patriotism by Scaughdt