One summer, I spent six weeks in China teaching English. One night I came downstairs for dinner, wearing a t-shirt and sweat shorts. Normally I didn’t wear an outfit like that to dinner, but the people knew me well enough now and honestly, it had been a long, hot day and I just needed to get out of my teaching clothes. I sat down next to my sweet host friend who was interning for the school. She pointed to the small American flag on my shorts and said, “Oh! For the American Captain?” I realized she thought my shorts were Captain America shorts. I briefly thought of saying it was just the flag, but then I realized how weird it is that Americans put the flag on random stuff. So, I just smiled, nodded and said, “Yeah, the American Captain.”
This was the first time I realized that the way Americans express their love of country is very different from other areas of the world. We take patriotism for granted and often don’t think of how to best express it critically. We should be proud of our country and here are three ways to express honor well:
Knowing Your History is Patriotic
Why are Americans obsessed with their flag? Why are Americans so outspoken about their opinions of government? Why are Americans so interested in only their culture? Some of these answers can be found in knowing our history.
Americans are proud of our flag because it represents our strenuous fight for and successful receipt of independence. Americans are so outspoken because we rightly value our freedom of speech. Americans are interested in our own culture because we’re proud of the advancements that America has provided the rest of the world.
These are all good things, but they’re often expressed poorly. Skimpy American flag apparel is only sexualizing the wearer and the flag, which isn’t patriotism. Hostility towards the government doesn’t help build trust in leadership and is not patriotic. Lack of interest in other countries (or lack of interest in your own country) does not create a good reputation and isn’t patriotism. Knowing your history helps you understand why patriotism is expressed the way it is in America. Knowing your history also helps you understand why the way it’s often expressed isn’t always good or helpful.
Respect Politicians
Maybe you strongly disagree with the way our government operates and find yourself frustrated by corruption in politics. Maybe you have a passion or interest in government so you’re more critical of those who hold office than others. Or, perhaps you’re trying to wade through the sea of strongly worded opinions from your family, friends and teachers and you really don’t know what to think. Wherever you stand, you need to understand that your local, state and national politicians have a very difficult job and they need some respect.
We take for granted that we have freedom of speech and if we want, we can bash the government with little to no repercussions. However, in other cultures, bashing your governments is looked down on, or even punishable. My older sister is a missionary in Albania. When talking to native Albanians, she keeps her opinions about our government, and the American President to herself. If she shows disregard for her leaders, she’ll be discredited and her witness will be tarnished.
You can disagree with someone respectfully. When you do, you’re not only setting a good example but you’re providing a positive representation. There are positive ways to show your disagreement. Signing petitions, calling your senator and keeping up with local government are all affirmative, effective, respectful ways to be patriotic.
Pray for Politicians
The Bible actually says to pray for your nation’s leaders. 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 says, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” We can pray for our leaders and how we do their job. We can pray that God would move in their hearts and direct their decisions. And we can thank God that He is in control and trust that He will make all things good in His time. There may be a lot about politics and government that we don’t know, but God has a complete picture and we can find comfort in that reality.
Be Humble
Americans want to be the best of the best. We’re incredibly proud of our history and the advances we’ve made. However, this blessing has its downside. Because Americans like the idea of being an “All-American” we often disrespect other cultures and/or decline learning and experiencing anything outside of the United States. America is composed of many different people from various walks of life and different cultures. Learning about other country’s advances and uniqueness doesn’t make us less American. In fact, trying new food, learning a different language and reading another country’s history is a relevant way to be patriotic.
Be Patriotic
Patriotism is a blessing. Expressing it well sets you apart and is beneficial to those around you. This Fourth of July, we want to see your patriotism! Tag us in your Instagram photos. Let’s celebrate our country together!
