Back in late March, I discussed posting an article to this site at least once a week. Well, as you can judge from the April archives, that ambition went down in flames. I’m not one to use excuses liberally, but a couple of important events happened in our family, as well as a very intense schedule for my son, coming down to the last phases of a first degree black belt test in tae kwon do (you will read a little bit about both in the coming weeks). Well, he’s finally got the black belt, and Mom and Dad can breathe a little easier. And, to boot, we have more time.
With this, I still hope to post articles more frequently, if not every week, beginning with today’s little rant about patriotism. I appreciate the readers who are here and continue to read despite the erratic publication schedule. Enjoy today’s post, and start looking for more to come!
Besides the obvious benefits of Osama Bin Laden being taken out by a Navy Seal (the obvious: one unholy terrorist taker of American lives eliminated), there are some not so subtle side effects of the events of the first of May.
Many beautiful images proliferated throughout the web after the fact. Stars and stripes, shimmering red, white, and blue colors in abundance. We were introduced again to photos of the World Trade Center before the 9/11 attacks, standing tall in the majestic New York skyline.
I saw many photos of the symbol of American freedom, the bald eagle, in flight, perched and steadfast, or draped in the shades of our flag. These images reflect American pride and patriotism.
While it’s a wonderful thing to see these images, whether as icons on the social media accounts of your friends or in a newspaper publication, the truth is we never see it enough. It seems only a tragedy like 9/11, or the event of the death of a terrorist leader brings out the best of American patriotism.
It’s what I would call “part time” patriotism. And as Americans, you and I can be better than that. This site will never have a strongly political bent, but this isn’t about politics. It’s about recognizing the right from wrong and the things we can improve upon.
I fly my flag outside of my home three seasons a year. Only three, because the upstate New York winter’s cold and winds will tatter and shred the most well made flag. But I would still consider that part time patriotism, as I know I can do more to honor this country and those who serve it.
There was an uproar from some after Bin Laden’s death that “everyone celebrated it” in the streets of DC and New York. While it’s an exaggeration that “everyone” did this, it’s important to remember this one individual was responsible for destroying thousands of lives. In this particular case, you shouldn’t feel bad about feeling good.
As usual, I will invoke the old school view on this one: Bin Laden got what he had coming to him, and the method of his removal could not have happened to a better guy. Peace and diplomacy are the preferred route for most anything, but not this time.
This blog is useful for a variety of reasons, not the least of which it helps me remember things. I am part time patriotic. This post should serve to remind me to strive to become more patriotic on a regular basis. To remember to thank those men and women at every opportunity for serving our country, especially in the Middle East. And keep them in my prayers.
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Joe DeGiorgio 
Bin Laden got what he had coming to him, though I do wish we could have been more humble about it. Even though many people had every right to be jubilant about his death, I do feel that the celebrations in the street were unnecessary. Really, at the end of the day, what’s the difference between Americans celebrating the death of Bin Laden and the celebrations in the streets of *wherever* with burning American flags, etc.?
I guess I just think we should be aware that images of our actions are broadcast across the world in an instant, and those images can be used as fuel against us to present America in a negative light to those who hate us. That is all they need to want to see our demise even more.
Be happy, yes? Celebrate in the streets the death of a man? I don’t think so. I don’t think that makes me any less happy that Osama is gone, or less patriotic. I think it makes me more sensitive to the other people we share this planet with, even if Osama was the scum of the Earth.
I have to say that this was a difficult call for a lot of Americans. To celebrate this or not? It’s a fine line to walk. You don’t want to stir the pot of hatred more toward the US and create a new threat. I celebrated in private in my own home, but wouldn’t think of dancing in the streets over it.
I celebrated with a smile and smug sense of satisfaction…and I agree, it was a difficult call, especially for those who were directly impacted by the actions of Bin Laden. I’m happy he’s gone…
again, when will you post your blog to FB ? you have something wonderful to share. Although I have never minded having you as my private poet, I think its time to spread the wealth with so may of your friends and family who dont know the creative side of you.
Reminds me that I have been meaning to write another post thanking our service people for their service. It hasn’t gone unnoticed.
In regard to OBL, I haven’t any problem saying that I hope he died afraid, alone and in fear.
Hey Joe, we do seem to take it for granted until a tragic of newsworthy event occurs.
My father was a Korean War vet w/ a purple heart. When he passed away several years ago and I was given the flag on his casket, I was very proud that my father had served.
I served in the Army for three years and will be doing a post on it shortly and how it shaped my life. War IS hell and I would hope somehow, someway we can find a way to resolve our conflicts in other ways.
Good post Joe and sorry it took me so long to get over here. I do appreciate you stopping by my place.
We also have a Purple Heart recipient in my family. My grandfather’s brother Dominick was killed in Europe by a land mine during World War II, and my grandmother used to talk about him all the time. When he was here in America, he had quite a way with the ladies. The ironic thing was, one of my grandpa’s other brothers was still in Italy, fighting for the other side. Brother against brother had the potential to happen, but never did.
Thanks for your service to our country, and for stopping here to comment, Bill. Love the posts you keep putting up, they are a highlight of my feed reader when they get there.
That’s right Joe, surely ain’t no reason to feel bad because you feel good about a terrible, terrible man leaving this world.
Love your take on patriotism and the passion you bring with it Joe.
And I wish you luck with your goals. Make it happen buddy!! 🙂
Have a great weekend,
Marcus
Marcus, I went back and forth on whether on not to post this, to be honest. It seemed off topic here, and I wasn’t sure if I could generate the “steam” I think a somewhat political post needs. But then I squashed the “inner critic” and let it fly. I’m not sure if I’ll do anything resembling politics in the near future with the writing, but I thought what I saw happening as this event did unfold warranted some comment.
As always, thanks for the read and the comment. TSL is one of my favorites, with you posting some very compelling material. I look forward to more in the future…