Just to keep things in proper perspective

[stripersnipr]

One of the points that I took from Mr. Smiths article is maybe we should all try to balance the negativism with at least some acknowledgement of the good things about America. Sounds like a healthy outlook to me. If one consistently points out and dwells on the negative aspects of their country without at least sometimes acknowledging the positive, yes their patriotism may be questioned. That should not be a surprise. If anyone finds that rationale divisive............Well, so be it.

[JohnR]

I think if one rests on the laurels of this country instead of trying to push for more and better, that's far from patriotic. One of my greatest regrets is having not served in the military, the other being to not have done better in High School (and having gone to an Academy or ROTC program).

How can I serve my country now? Try to do a good job where I work facilitating a better education for your kids. Raising a great young kid (working on it). Doing the right thing.

How else? Keep on pushing authority to make sure THEY do the right thing. Keep pushing authority to make sure THEY support those that put it all on the line.

Short of being in the military or DOD, putting it on the line day in and day out, or being in politics for the betterment or our country (instead of one's self interests) pushing authority is the best thing one can do....

[sok]

Originally Posted by stripersnipr

One of the points that I took from Mr. Smiths article is maybe we should all try to balance the negativism with at least some acknowledgement of the good things about America. Sounds like a healthy outlook to me. If one consistently points out and dwells on the negative aspects of their country without at least sometimes acknowledging the positive, yes their patriotism may be questioned. That should not be a surprise. If anyone finds that rationale divisive............Well, so be it.

What he said.

As usual;
but............
and .....................

[spence]

Originally Posted by stripersnipr

If one consistently points out and dwells on the negative aspects of their country without at least sometimes acknowledging the positive, yes their patriotism may be questioned.

Too bad this is America, you have every right to be a pessamistic, negative bastage and still love your country.

-spence

[Bronko]

Originally Posted by spence

Too bad this is America, you have every right to be a pessamistic, negative bastage and still love your country.

-spence

Don't forget....

Too bad this is America, you have every right to be a pessimistic, negative bastage and hate your country.

[stripersnipr]

Originally Posted by spence

Too bad this is America, you have every right to be a pessamistic, negative bastage and still love your country.

-spence

I would consider that a positive commentary on the freedoms we enjoy in America. Good job.