Patriotism...

For most of my life I have not been a very patriotic person. I mean, I say the pledge of allegiance and sing the national anthem, but if asked "Hey, are you patriotic?" I probably would have laughed and gave an exceedingly witty retort that dodged the question.

My opinion has changed in my eight months abroad. It has become exceedingly clear to me that America is an amazing place. We have managed a lot in our short history, some of it exceptional, other parts not so good. When I was younger I would hear stories on the news about something happening in my country that I didn't like and think, I would love to live in another country...disassociate myself with this maddness.

The point is that this is simply not possible. No matter where you go in this world you will always be "the American" or at the very least an American. The deeds of your homeland will always reflect back on you in subtle ways. That in mind, I've changed my tune. I have to love America because I am America. Without love for your country there is no reason to try to make it the place you would like reflected back on you.