Patriotism

My son has recently been redeployed to the Middle East. This is his second deployment.  During his first deployment his Hummer was the target of a roadside bomb. He received a Purple Heart.  So his redeployment brings massive stress to our son,  our family and to his new wife, who we adore.  

I have also served in the Middle East seeing combat in Kuwait. During the years following Kuwait I have deeply pondered the topic of patriotism. My son's redeployment has rekindled my curiosity on the subject.

Scientifically, patriotism born from our intrinsic need to bond or seek community and this inborn need for community is the glue which makes civilization possible.  Our need for community is  stamped in our DNA. This need is always present, always on and is responsible of amazing achievements like placing a human on the moon. Sadly, it can also  can be massively misused and our history is overflowing with dark examples. 

We should have a strong grasp of right and wrong. Furthermore we should have a clear understanding of the allure of patriotism.  Feverishly embrace patriotism when its river moves us toward a just goal.  It will help us overcome obstacles, sorrows, and temporary defeats.  Yet, we should have the courage to ignore the moving crowd if the crowd is marching toward an unjust goal. 

In the end, simply be a good, warm person.  Forgive yourself for past mistakes and do the right thing. 

Our family will be reunited again.