Proud of America

Many have made a huge deal about the fact that Barack Obama did not have his hand over his heart during the National Anthem. Or that Michelle Obama was proud of her country for the first time. Why do I bring up these issues so late in the game? Because it speaks to a greater issue of paying attention to the unnecessary while people are dying, starving, and impoverished. This is not due to the fact that Obama is black, but because the talking heads and pundits guide our national opinion. There is too much meaningless conversation. Why do we care about nonissues? What should concern Americans are the issues facing the nation. The nation is in a time of crisis and we are concerned about flag etiquette, “patriotism”, and national pride? This is unacceptable. A true patriot is someone who is not afraid to question the country’s government and how it functions. Someone who is not afraid to disagree with government is the definition of patriotism. It pains me to watch the word “patriot” used carelessly in an attempt to separate us because of differing opinions. Patriots don’t always agree; this does not change the fact that they are patriots. Agreeing does not a patriot make, only through dissent is true patriotism exhibited.

What makes me most angry is the fact that none of the issues brought up against Obama (the ones mentioned earlier) is that they are unfounded. One does not always have to be proud of one’s nation to be a patriot. The black perspective is different. We still hurt from slavery and racism. Yes it was long ago, but some consequences still exist. We can’t brush the issue under the rug. I am now truly proud of my nation. We have a chance (a great chance) to have a black president. Maybe we can finally open the discussion and heal the wounds of our past. Honesty is the only way to find out more about us in an effort to move forward. If you have prejudices or racist tendencies, then please allow them to be brought to light. Education is the only cure for ignorance. Blacks aren’t perfect and neither is any other race, but through our differences we must remember that we are all human beings, striving to live.

Obama not placing his hand over his heart during the national anthem is not a sin. Why? BECAUSE CITIZENS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DO SO (only the removal of a hat is required) and MOST PEOPLE DON’T PLACE THEIR HAND OVER THEIR HEART DURING THE ANTHEM. The hand of the heart is required during the Pledge of Allegiance! Let’s put away the bullshit. Let’s move forward with dignity. Let us show the world that America is the greatest nation in the world. Let’s give our children the opportunity to fly to new heights. Let’s grow more united. Let’s keep working together to build our schools. Let’s make America great!

OBAMA!