Friday, April 26, 2013

When did the banning of patriotism become the new fad? Over the last several months I have read series of articles through news sources such as CNN, Fox News, and the Associated Press regarding students being punished for showing their patriotism.
A little boy was told that he could not wear a baseball cap for a school event decorated to reflect the Army, where his father was currently serving, because representing the military was condoning the use of guns. Then there was the three students who wore t-shirts with the American flag to school and were remove from class for inappropriate attire because it was Cinco de Mayo. Most recently a school in Massachusetts denied student the right and privilege of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance on a voluntary basis because it might offend someone delicate sensibilities or their religious beliefs.
Why is it that we are allowing the authorities in our children’s lives to tell them it’s wrong to express a love of their country? When I was in school saying the Pledge of Allegiance was expected and respected. We were taught in kindergarten the words and the meaning behind them and why it was important to show support for your country. We were taught to honor members of the military because it was at their hands that our freedom was maintained. So, why has it become politically incorrect for our children to be taught those same lessons?
Our Constitution is what made it possible for American born citizens to live free and for people not of this country to become part of this country. When did American born citizens become the minority? Why is there so much concern over everyone else’s sensibilities and egos that we have suddenly disregarded our own interests?
My son is in the Army and I am proud of him every day because stands up for what he believes in and for a country he has faith in. My father was in the Navy in his younger days doing for the same reasons my son joined the Army. My husband is a veteran of the Navy and was a participant in the first Gulf War; he signed on to military service the day he graduated high school. All of these men were taught from a young age the lessons of our freedom and the reasons for being a patriot.
The saddest story to hear is the one from son who was asked by small child, about 6 or 7 years old, why he was wearing a uniform. My son talked with this child for a few minutes explaining why he wore a uniform and further explaining what the Army was.  I cannot remember a time when I was not aware of the men and women who keep our shores safe. It is a sorry state of affairs when a child is ignorant of the people that keep this nation strong.
The fact that our children are being denied information is depressing enough, but being denied the right to voice a belief once they have gained the information is barbaric. How long as a society are we going to bend to the will and whimsy of those not native born? When are we going to say we have had enough and will no longer sit idly by as our patriotism is forced into the dark corners of secrecy? When are we going to stand up and say “no more?”
In my family, now and for generations to come, our children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and any other child welcomed into our home will always be provided with answers to questions and knowledge of home and country. They will be further equipped with the ability to stand behind their convictions and support just causes.

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