Re-Normalize Patriotism
There's Nothing Wrong with Loving Your Country
In this day and age, it can feel borderline taboo to be proud to be an American.
Why is that?
In today’s social media algorithm-driven world of polarization, we’re told to pick a side: blindly wave a flag and ignore the obvious problems going on in our beloved land or be so overconsumed by said problems that we start telling ourselves and everyone around us that America is an oppressive cancer.
I love this country, and there’s no other place I’d rather claim. Don’t get me wrong, we have a ton of problems on our hands—and don’t get me started on the way we try to go out and solve everybody else’s.
For a living, I help companies hire talented information technology professionals. In my profession, I speak daily with people who are not from America—most are already living here, others are doing everything they possibly can to get over here. I’ve asked some what appeals to them about our great nation. The answers I’ve gotten include economic opportunity, social freedom, a diverse mix of people, our beautiful wildlife, and more. This shouldn’t surprise anyone—for hundreds of years, people from every corner of the world have given everything they have to immigrate to the US.
As a veteran with an admittedly unimpressive military career, I have had the pleasure and working and connecting with a lot of people who have given an awful lot in defense of this nation. Just as I’m inspired by the resolve of those working to get to America, I’m inspired by the level of sacrifice our brothers and sisters have signed up for in order to keep her safe.
I hope everybody has a great Independence Day. Enjoy the time off with loved ones, stay safe, and count your blessings. You live in the best country on Earth.
