As we watch another Fourth of July pass by, it is an understatement to speculate that stores and advertisements have been cascading their merchandise in bold red, white, and blue. Around every corner, fireworks stands were erected while a bushel of American flags wave at you. It is a beloved time of year that many Americans utilize to hold cookouts and party by the lake. One can even assume that as soon as Memorial Day weekend arrives, the whole country suddenly is hit with a tsunami of patriotism that seems to ride throughout the duration of the summer. I can even go as far to say that big name stores display all of these products up until Labor Day weekend – signifying the bitter end of the summer.
However after this three month stretch, we no longer see the immense American pride as previously portrayed. All of a sudden many of our attentions divert into the next seasonal fad, concerning ourselves now with the latest pumpkin spice whatever. Where is the concern in this scenario? We as Americans are treating patriotism and pride for country as a seasonal trend.
This is not intended to be insulting nor implying that we do not express love of country any other time of the year. It is simply stating the fact that we primarily express this feeling throughout a designated time frame; and to be frank that is not right. Although this past weekend is designated to celebrate the establishment of this great nation, we often times forget that there is more than that to remember.
Due to the fact that it is construed as “old news," we often forget that we still have a plethora of men and women overseas. These brave heroes do not get a three day weekend to break open a sixer and get drunk by the pool. You won’t see them decked out in the most flamboyant red white and blue attire on Instagram with the caption, “Murica”. No. Unlike the rest of us they are not able to join us on this mini vacation, for they decided to dedicate themselves to keeping us safe. This is why patriotism should not be seasonal.
There is nothing wrong with reveling the birth of our nation. To be honest, I’ll admit that I too participated in traditional festivities. However, the problem is that we have made it habitual that we only remember our troops when a holiday reminds us. Quite frankly it is not fair to them. From active duty members, those on the reserves, and veterans all deserve more respect than what we are providing. They are more than worthy of being recognized for what they have gone and what they are currently going through. For the sake of these amazing men and women, we as people need to take a second and appreciate all that they do, and not in a cyclical fashion.
Webster’s Dictionary describes patriotism as “devoted love, support, and defense of one’s country; national loyalty”. Read this and remember how lucky we are to be native to this nation, and all that is done for our freedoms.
