Spotting a True Patriot: Defining the American Spirit

Understanding the essence of a true patriot is no small feat, especially in a nation as diverse and rich in history as the United States. Patriotic individuals embody the values, ideals, and history of the country, working tirelessly to contribute positively to society and foster a collective identity.

Distinguishing Between Real and False Patriots

In the face of societal debates, there are two primary types of patriotism: one that embraces the warts and all approach, acknowledging and learning from the past, and another that idealizes the nation's history, often dismissing any notion of imperfection. True patriots, who deeply love their country, recognize the importance of acknowledging and addressing past mistakes to build a better future.

This perspective stands in contrast to those who believe in a spotless past, suggesting that any critique or discussion of past shortcomings is met with resistance or even hostility. It is important to understand that neither approach is inherently wrong, but true patriots strive for a balanced perspective that embraces both the past and present while continuously working towards progress.

The Importance of Real Patriotism in Society

To exemplify true patriotism, one can look to a real-world example. I was recently tasked with designing and building a interactive dairy farm model for a large cheese manufacturing company in the Central Valley of California. The model was intended to attract casual visitors as well as dairy industry professionals from across the United States and international farm groups.

The original model was quite basic, featuring a green painted piece of plywood with a fabric skirt. However, I recognized the importance of visually interesting and accurate representations to enhance the educational value of the exhibit. To achieve this, I custom built the necessary components, utilizing a mix of H.O. scale model railroad buildings and other store-bought models to create a more engaging and comprehensive layout.

The Role of National Symbols

In the assembly of the dairy farm model, a pivotal aspect was the inclusion of the American flag. In my experience, every dairy farm I have encountered in the country, particularly in California, displays an American flag prominently. For a model to be truly representative and inspiring, it was essential to include this symbol of national pride. However, my boss initially opposed the idea, citing personal beliefs against the flag as a statement of anti-establishment sentiment.

My personal stance as a patriot was clear: I believe in supporting my country without hostility towards its symbols. Recognizing the significance of the American flag, I insisted on its inclusion, despite initial resistance. This decision was driven by a desire to correctly represent the model and honor my own feelings of patriotism and respect for the nation's symbols.

The Journey to Obtain a Flag Pole Model

To address the lack of a suitable flag pole model at the hobby store, I embarked on a mission to find an exact replica. I visited a local bank in the evening, where the flag stood proudly in a stiff westerly breeze. Using a cheesy flip phone for the photography, I captured a clear image of the bank's flag. Realizing that I needed a custom flag, I turned to digital tools to create a reverse image print to accurately replicate the flag on the backing of the model.

My dedication to achieving the perfect representation of the American flag in the model was clear, driven by a strong sense of patriotism and a desire to ensure the authenticity of the exhibit. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of symbols in fostering a sense of identity and unity among citizens.

Conclusion

A true patriot, as evidenced in these examples, is someone who embraces and celebrates the nation's diversity and history, acknowledges mistakes, and works towards a better future. Whether it is through design, advocacy, or personal actions, true patriots contribute positively to society and foster a shared sense of national pride and identity.