What Patriotism Means to Different Individuals
Expressing Patriotism Through Home Country Care
“For some, patriotism is akin to being house proud but of one’s country, taking care of it, maintaining its cleanliness, investing in its welfare, and expressing concern for its people. It means looking out for one’s neighbours and extending a warm welcome to visitors and newcomers.” – Zoe, Barnsley, England
Patriotism as a Form of Progression
“Carl Schurz’s message, ‘my country, right or wrong. If right, to be kept right. If wrong, to be set right,’ has been interpreted by some as the essence of patriotism. They believe that a patriot is willing to critique their own country to create a better future for it rather than maintaining a false appearance of perfection.” – William, US
Shared Humanity as a Patriotism Aspect
“To some people, patriotism isn’t necessarily about adorning oneself with a country’s flag; it’s more about embracing shared humanity.” – Gary, Rhode Island, US
Quiet and Enduring Love as Patriotism
“For some people, patriotism isn’t about flag-waving or singing anthems to prove one’s love for their country. It’s a quieter, enduring kind of love, the kind that persists even when things aren’t perfect. It’s about showing kindness when anger might be easier, and never drawing lines between people based on their origins.” – Brian, Portishead, England
The Aspect of Duty and Understanding in Patriotism
“In the eyes of some, patriotism is synonymous with love for one’s country, which, like any form of love, should not be unconditional or all-encompassing. They believe that patriotism involves understanding and learning from a country’s history, and making strides to help shape and improve it.” – Richard, Croydon, England
Setting a Positive Example as an Act of Patriotism
“For others, being patriotic involves setting a good example for others, caring for the environment, and giving back to the community. This could be done through acts of charity or being a role model for the younger generation.” – Joanna, Essex, England
Kindness as a Form of Patriotism
“To some individuals, patriotism means embracing all that is kind and welcoming in our country, and striving for a better society by promoting kindness and respect.” – Ann, Bishop’s Stortford, England
Being Welcoming as a Form of Patriotism
“For some, patriotism is about having a deep love for one’s land and extending a warm welcome to anyone who loves and cares for it, regardless of where they were born or what their race or religion is.” – James, England
Aiming High: Another Form of Patriotism
“Some people view patriotism as aspiring for their country to be the best it can be, making it clean and fair for everyone, with no one or nowhere left behind.” – Candida, West Sussex, England
Preserving Identity as an Act of Patriotism
“For others, being patriotic means preserving a country’s unique identity. This could involve learning and teaching local history, folk songs, arts and crafts, and also caring for local wildlife.” – Beth, Lancashire, England
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