In light of the remembrance of the most tragic event in American history, I think it is important to highlight the nature of patriotism. Patriotism is a dish that can be served in a multitude of ways, and it comes with a plethora of flavors. In the light of the whole sitting down for the pledge ordeal, patriotism must be defined thoroughly, so that those who stand against this nation may see how they are participating in such a disrespectful boycott of an American tradition.

When speaking in terms of patriotism, many can offer their own unique definition. Some may view patriotism as wearing the colors of one’s country, flying their country’s banner proudly and just generally highly regarding and revering their nation. Some may even be driven far enough as to serve their country in some way through military, federal or civil service. These are all correct in their own way, but I think it would be wise to view patriotism as a form of love, for it can indeed be defined as a love for one’s country. The obstacle here, however, is that love itself is rather difficult to define. Despite the fact that defining it can prove to be rather difficult, there are various elements of love from which we can derive fractals of the entire definition.

Love has a holistic nature, in which you evaluate the great things about who or what you love and you favor the object of love in question, despite any negative sides they may have. A good example would be if your partner has gorgeous eyes, makes you laugh and can cook well, but they have some habit you dislike. Just because they have that one thing that you do not like, you do not stop loving them. Love must also have an element of forgiveness. If your loved one breaks your favorite vase or accidentally spills something on you, you forgive them. These are obviously very minimal versions of what you could forgive, but it is merely an example.

If we take these shards of the definition, it becomes very easy to see how patriotism’s true nature can dispel the negativity that is being shown by certain players in the NFL. Yes, the United States has done atrocious things, but we cannot simply detest the country for its prior actions. Instead of taking part in a useless protest, take it upon yourself to be the change that you want to be. Our forefathers did not simply declare that the United States would be dependent, they fought for it. We do need some change indeed, but disrespect and inutility should not be the tactic of choice. Action is always the way to see a reaction.