Examining Patriotism

July… a month, which on the 4th, officially celebrates our patriotic feelings about the formation of our nation… a time normally spent together with family and friends, enjoying each other’s company…

EXCEPT… avoiding Covid-19 has changed our habits this year, and maybe even our thoughts as we continue to wash our hands… and safely distance… at home.

It has given me plenty of time to examine the concept “Patriotism” and what it means to me. An earlier poem in my book MILESTONES, called "E. M. Forster Speaks For Me", carries a similar theme to this, my July (2020) Poem Of The Month.

EXAMINING PATRIOTISM
“Unhappy the land that is in need of heroes.” - Bertolt Brecht

Mark Twain said: “Patriotism is supporting your country…
… all the time,” as he paused in his thought;
Then added: “and your government (only) when
It deserves it!” (a passing shot.)

Teddy Roosevelt said: “Patriotism means to stand by the country…”
Then added a clarification quite sound:
“It does not mean standing by any public official
Unless he or she serves the country.” (words profound!)

The English writer, Julian Barnes, said: “The greatest patriotism
Is to tell your country when it’s behaving [badly];”
To make it accountable to all of its people.
Is that happening here at home? No… sadly.

And Edward Abbey, essayist and novelist,
Wrote these words —it’s clear what he meant:
“A patriot must always be ready to defend
His country against his government.”

Benjamin Franklin uttered this, and somehow it applies
To the present ungainly situation:
“You can give a man an Office,” (elected by the people)
“But you cannot give him Discretion.”

What we in our country really want
Is an America as good as its commitment.
Our Constitution outlines those promises very clearly.
Are they unfolding in the way they were meant?

Our Constitution is a wonderful gift,
But it has no power on its own.
We, the People, give it meaning. We must participate…
The outcomes are up to us, it has been shown.