3 results for tag: Patriotism
Patriotism is learning to live with one another
Since I was a young child I was fascinated by pyrotechnics. While the chemistry of fireworks is fascinating, and the artistry that goes into creating the visual display is impressive, I have never really cared for the volume of the resulting booms. While I personally have never been in a war zone, I think about all the friends and family that have and imagine how hard it is for some of them to deal with a display which could look and sound something like a battleground. So, during this celebratory season around the 4th of July, I often think about the people I know who have fought for our country. I would like to share one of those stories with you ...
A Citizen Remembers
A Citizen Remembers….by Randy Radtke
I remember a few things growing up.
I remember my dad being able to raise our family on one income. Most people could raise their family on one income. Some of their spouses chose to work but it wasn't necessary.
When people did not agree totally with the government, they still knew government was needed for our country to function properly.
We respected all teachers, both public and private.
There was respect for each other no matter what occupation or point of view.
We seemed more united. People seemed to know we were all in this together
Many employees never paid a dime for their health ...
Veterans Day Reality
On Veterans Day I am reminded of the many popular misconceptions about veterans. We have an almost cult hero worship of veterans and their “sacrifice” for “freedom.”
The truth is veterans are just people. They reflect a cross section of our society. They have the same mix of dedication, patriotism, and competence as other public employees. They also exhibit the same prejudices, character flaws, and foibles as the general population. The periodic scandals (rape, torture, killing of civilians, sexual harassment, cheating on competency tests) clearly illustrate this point.
It is a myth that we owe our freedom to veterans. Our many wars were ...