Patriot Pen Essay

 
The meaning of the word patriot is the support, defense, and love for one's country. There are many ways to represent this. One is by displaying the flag of the United States of America. This is shown by the way we respect the flag and the history behind the stars and stripes. We raise and lower the flag out of respect for those who have defended the rights of freedom. When we look back in history, men who we consider patriots, are the signatories of the Declaration of Independence. At the time they did not call themselves patriots, that name was given to them in later years. What made these men patriots were the causes that they would give up their own lives for, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Many of us take our freedom for granted, although the reality is that many wars have been fought and untold number of men, women, and children have sacrificed their lives for this freedom.

A true patriot, to me, is one who can stand up for what they believe in, is willing to defend what is right, and is willing to defend those who cannot defend themselves. Patriotism however, is not following blindly. A patriot will always believe in his or her country, but will not be led down a path without question. To question is patriotic. Our country was founded on this basic principal and to this day, we fight for the right to question.

A patriot must be responsible. By actively participating in our democratic processes, a patriot strengthens our nation. This is demonstrated by voting, running for elective offices, serving our country in many capacities including the armed forces, and obeying the laws of our country.

I am a patriot because I do not judge others by their appearance or their beliefs or force them to follow my beliefs. I do, however, judge them based on their desire to take a part in unifying and strengthening our nation.

I am a patriot because I love my country and will defend the honor of our nation.