According to Wikipedia – Patriotism is an emotional attachment to a nation which an individual recognizes as their homeland. This attachment, also known as national feeling or national pride, can be viewed in terms of different features relating to one’s own nation, including ethnic, cultural, political or historical aspects.
With that definition in mind America it appears owes a giant debt of gratitude to football player Colin Kaepernick, the second string quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers that a few weeks ago started a firestorm in America by choosing to sit down during the playing of our country’s national anthem.
His actions brought a great deal of attention to his cause – the mistreatment of minorities in America, but it also brought out a lot of pent up patriotism in lots of Americans.
At this point in time when many Americans are questioning why our choices for president of the good ol’ USA are so ridiculously limited it is good that we are experiencing a revival of patriotism in ways we haven’t seen since the events of 9-11.
There have been some wonderful examples. At the last Royals game I attended one of my sons got my attention by the manner in which stood and almost saluted – actually his hand was over his heart, but it was obvious he was making a point!
And if you missed the displays of patriotism during the Ryder Cup golf matches last weekend you missed a lot. On Saturday with American stars Patrick Reed and Jordan Spieth walking towards a green the crowd spontaneously broke out singing the Stars Spangled Banner. Reed and Spieth walked side by side with their hands over their hearts! It was amazing.
Colin Kapernick’s point has been well documented and it was a reasonable exercise in American rights, but the unintended results from his sit down in the form of good ‘ol American patriotism far out weighs his result.
