July 3, 2007
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Free Osama!
Tomorrow is 4th of July, a time to reflect on things like freeing Osama Bin Laden… oh wait, he is free. No really, I enjoyed the 4th more when I was younger, and not just cause of the fireworks, but because of the idealism. I’m looking forward to a party, having the day off, but I’m just down on patriotism a bit. Nationalism, really, but that’s what most people call patriotism these days. Nationalism is the love of your country, by its name, no matter what it does. Nationalism is pride beyond reason, as if you had a choice where you were born. To me patriotism is to principles revered by this country’s founders and others who came after them, and therefore also to the same ideals wherever they exist in the world. Our country, admit it or not, doesn’t always live up to those principles, but there are always people fighting for them, at least. We as a people have at times gotten further in securing liberties for the people than most places. But as Thomas Jefferson said, “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.” So let’s remember, this 4th, those original patriots, like Thomas Jefferson, who knew what freedom really was, even if they didn’t realize yet that it should apply to women and black people and Native Americans...
Comments (5)
No no no. This is "Republicats get out of jail free Independence Day" in which we celebrate the fact that half of America probably thinks its ok for you to commit any crime and walk free as long as you oppose gun control, abortion, and gay marriage.
Hey it's me nidan. Haven't seen you post in a while, hope all is well.
I think we all define patriotism in our own way. Me, I define it as loyalties to the principles that Thomas Jefferson put forth. I am also a pragmatist willing to accept the consequences of my inability to keep such principles perfectly, due to my incomplete understanding. Wich is a limitation we all have but few are willing to admit. I guess that is why so many limit themselves to the either or mindset of the Democrats and Republicans.
PS: To add to the commenter above the fact is that half of America also thinks its ok for you to commit any crime and walk free as long as you oppose religion, Freedom of press (Fox News) and George W Bush.
Sorry I meant to add a link for Nidan.
But I'm sure you understood it was me.
I'm going to celebrate by taking wild advantage of Goodwill's 50% off sale. Apparently they stock brand-new items as well, like underwear and lotion.
i think this is one of the best posts i've ever read. it's times like these that i wish xanga allowed a million props for gems. of course, the problem would be subjectivity, as always! =)
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