the blog
Here’s to you, Lee Greenwood
by kristen
January 21, 2010 | Culture, Faith, Inspiration, Life | 3 responses
Patriotism hasn’t been all that cool for quite awhile. Even in elementary school, I was a bit turned off by it. But, then again, maybe I was turned off by the extreme patriotism of one of my grade school teachers. At the time, her son was in the military. We were not so subtly reminded of this fact about twice a month, when she’d put in a VHS tape–always the same one–and have us circle around the room, hold hands, sway, and sing to the music video version of “God Bless the USA”–the one complete with the line “I’m proud to be an American.” She was (and I’m sure still is) a kind woman with only the best intentions, but the whole experience was honestly a bit off-putting given our ages (right between the time the opposite sex turned from cootie-carriers to crushes).
However, for the first time in quite awhile, and as cliche as it sounds, I’m proud to be an American. As of two days ago, according to cnn.com, Americans have donated more than $220 million to organizations for Haiti earthquake relief. It’s estimated that about half this total was donated via text (if you haven’t donated yet, try the Red Cross–text “Haiti” to 90999 to make a $10 donation). Some naysayers believe this type of donation even further isolates people and encourages them to keep their physical distance from disaster.
But, I disagree. Because of these options, millions of people who might forget to go online to donate or mail in a check, millions of people who don’t have the vacation time, the courage, the finances, or even the desire to get on a plane to Haiti have made and will continue to make a difference.
The devastation in Haiti is overwhelming. The stories and photos have made me tear up several times in the past few days. And the horror isn’t over for this country’s people–so as Christians our work isn’t nearly done yet. But, at the risk of sounding cheesy, I’m proud. To be an American. To be a Christian. To be a human being.
photo credit: everystockphoto.com
ps. It's still cute to be patriotic if you're 3 years old: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQtmp1hTRwA
It is nice to be reminded of how generous humanity is here in America and around the world.
It is healthy I think to be wholistic in out giving. The three T’s: time, talent and treasure!
Chritain first, patriot next.
I am ALWAYS proud to be an American but I may be disillusioned from time to time. America has made it possible for others to have the freedom to be Christian or not. To be free or not. Protecting ourselves and setting others on the path to free choice at the same time is noble and just. Disagree with ideology if you want but never be ashamed of being a citizen of a country founded on the greatest ideals.