Am I not a patriot? It depends what you mean by that.
A patriot of symbols, waving flags, marching in crowds, beating my chest?
Certainly not.
A patriot who cares for the rights of all and for the natural environment around us?
A patriot who pays his taxes, votes in elections, obeys the law, fulfills his civic duties?
A patriot who cherishes rivers and beaches free of raw sewage and dumped detritus.
A patriot who believes all have the right to access adequate healthcare and avail of a decent standard of living.
A patriot who believes in care for his neighbours and communal harmony.
A patriot who truly celebrates all this country has to offer, without continually wailing and sobbing, and shouting others down.
If this is what you mean by patriotism, then count me in.
If all you mean is hatred of others, you can count me out. We need a better vision to believe in.
Last modified: 5 June 2024
