Patriotism

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” Men and women in uniform and their families have sacrificed for our nation. They have given the ultimate gift for our countries freedom.
Their love and devotion to our country is outstanding, many of us could never have the courage the veterans did waking up one morning and deciding I am ready to put my life on the line to fight for my nation’s freedom. “Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime,” stated Adlai Stevenson. To have the honor of being a patriot would be unbelievable. You not only think of the veterans, but of their families. The pain and anticipation they must have to go through, worrying about all of the tragic and horrible things that could happen to their loved ones.
Just think if you were a child during a war watching your father go off and fight and having the glory of saying, “My dad is fighting for our country’s freedom.” Then one day you come home and your mother has gotten a phone call, your father was killed fighting for freedom. How could you live without him there by your side? People don’t seem to think about this gift these men and women are giving us, risking their lives for one of ours. No this present is not wrapped up in a pretty box with a bow, but it is worth a lot more than a basketball or a piece of clothing.
Although these people are fighting for America they do not even know the thousands of people they are saving. If I was a soldier I would want a big thank you when I got off the plane after fighting in a war for over five years, but you might not even get that. I don’t think many people realize what these people are doing for us and we can’t even give them a mere thank you.
I find myself wondering what it would be like walking into a building in uniform and having people know that you have fought for what they have right now. I think I would have great pride in myself that I have the bravery to fight for what I believe in. These men and women in these cold hearted wars must have so many things going on in their heads. The sound of bullets rushing by, the battle cries of the merciless enemies, and the cries of agony from their fellow soldiers.
As you can see being a patriot is a privilege for yourself and for others. You should be admired by all people and applauded at your good deed.