What it means to be patriotic...

There's been a lot of talk in the news lately about patriotism. As the election draws nearer every day, candidates are expected to increase their song and dance of flag-waving and kissing babies (although to be honest, I've never witnessed a candidate do either one of these things...but google images assures me that this does actually occur).

Obama has gotten the most flak about patriotism. Emails about him being a terrorist. Observations that he did not put his hand over his heart during the pledge of alliegence (he alledges it was actually during the singing of the national anthem). Admitting to not wearing a flag lapel pin!!

What is this country coming to?!?!

So USA Today pens an article about how Obama is "seeking to stress his patriotism" in his latest speeches.

From the article: "Obama said he thinks true patriotism is demonstrated by a person's actions, not his lapel." I might add, and true patriotism is not just slapping a sticker on the back of your car.

I'm glad that Obama is putting forward a Democratic version of patriotism, one that actually focuses on actions for one's country, unlike the actions the Republicans just take for themselves and call it patriotic. Wearing a flag lapel pin to up their own image instead of working to get troops out of harm's way. Putting "support our troops" stickers on the backs of their cars, but irresponsibly and dangerously continuing involvement in Iraq.

So the Republicans take patriotism to be all about themselves, or the Id. So I'd have to say, that's not patriotic, that would be...id-iotic.

(Ok that was a stretch :P )