Forums > Social Chat > patriotic musings
Login/Join to Participateenthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
I don't usually do posts that have a political theme or agenda, because they so often seem to degrade into mud-slinging. And yet, given the date and in the light of the recent rash of politically motivated posts.....tonight i feel the need to start a thread on the topic of patriotism, as it occurs to me that patriotism and politicism are two separate entities. I often have problems with government policies and the politics and politicians involved in my government, but I don't like to bitch about it unless I am prepared to actually attempt to do something about it. And that is exactly the beauty of a democratic government...you can actually do something about it, even when it seems your efforts are lost in the throng.
Tonight I went with friends in a boat up the river to the annual fireworks show, where I was pleased to see as huge a crowd lining the shores and dotting the river as there ever is- perhaps even more than usual. People were not just there this year to watch the spectacle, they were really reveling in the moment, fully cognizent of the solidarity and strength we all share. Now this all might sound corny to some of you but I believe that one of our greatest strengths as a nation has nothing to do with our military might or wealth or whatever...it's our ability to stand together, ignore petty differences, and unite in the face of adversity. Seems like the more difficult the threat, the stronger we are. Independence Day is always a great party, but this year when those fireworks started going off with the Star Spangled Banner playing, there were many that I saw with tears in their eyes, hands over hearts or at the least sober and pride-filled faces. The sentiment that appeared to be shared by all present was
GOD DAMN IT'S GOOD TO BE AN AMERICAN!!!!
On behalf of myself, my friends who are with me still, and especially the friends I lost on 9/11 to the deranged beliefs of a psycho's idea of what America is all about....
Happy Independence Day! Be strong and proud and live your lives to the fullest every day, with no regrets!
*gets off her soap box before someone decides to knock her off*
I don't usually do posts that have a political theme or agenda, because they so often seem to degrade into mud-slinging. And yet, given the date and in the light of the recent rash of politically motivated posts.....tonight i feel the need to start a thread on the topic of patriotism, as it occurs to me that patriotism and politicism are two separate entities. I often have problems with government policies and the politics and politicians involved in my government, but I don't like to bitch about it unless I am prepared to actually attempt to do something about it. And that is exactly the beauty of a democratic government...you can actually do something about it, even when it seems your efforts are lost in the throng.
Tonight I went with friends in a boat up the river to the annual fireworks show, where I was pleased to see as huge a crowd lining the shores and dotting the river as there ever is- perhaps even more than usual. People were not just there this year to watch the spectacle, they were really reveling in the moment, fully cognizent of the solidarity and strength we all share. Now this all might sound corny to some of you but I believe that one of our greatest strengths as a nation has nothing to do with our military might or wealth or whatever...it's our ability to stand together, ignore petty differences, and unite in the face of adversity. Seems like the more difficult the threat, the stronger we are. Independence Day is always a great party, but this year when those fireworks started going off with the Star Spangled Banner playing, there were many that I saw with tears in their eyes, hands over hearts or at the least sober and pride-filled faces. The sentiment that appeared to be shared by all present was
GOD DAMN IT'S GOOD TO BE AN AMERICAN!!!!
On behalf of myself, my friends who are with me still, and especially the friends I lost on 9/11 to the deranged beliefs of a psycho's idea of what America is all about....
Happy Independence Day! Be strong and proud and live your lives to the fullest every day, with no regrets!
*gets off her soap box before someone decides to knock her off*
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
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2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
*sings*
Well I'm proud to be an American where atleast I know I'm free, and I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I proudly stand up, next to you and defend her still today, 'cause there aint no doubt I love this land! God bless the U.S.A.
I think one of the greatest things about America is, is that no matter how many times someone knocks us down, we get back up. And when we do get back up we are 10 times stronger, as a country not in military might.
We all know that slavery was a big thing in America, how it was more prominate in the the south. I recall a documentery on the Vietnam War, where a reporter asked a white soldier "Why did you risk your life for that N^*()*^?" and the soldier replied in one of the most southern accents I have ever heard "Because he's an American."
America may screw up, we may not always do what is right, but damnit when push comes to shove, we are there for eachother.
Patriotism is not a flag on your car or something you hang on your house or in your front yard, it is something that is tattood on your soul. Something that can not be given away, or bought. It is instilled.
Even if I wasn't a Marine, I would still be willing to give my life for my country and its people. That is how much I love this country!
*sings*
Well I'm proud to be an American where atleast I know I'm free, and I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me. And I proudly stand up, next to you and defend her still today, 'cause there aint no doubt I love this land! God bless the U.S.A.
I think one of the greatest things about America is, is that no matter how many times someone knocks us down, we get back up. And when we do get back up we are 10 times stronger, as a country not in military might.
We all know that slavery was a big thing in America, how it was more prominate in the the south. I recall a documentery on the Vietnam War, where a reporter asked a white soldier "Why did you risk your life for that N^*()*^?" and the soldier replied in one of the most southern accents I have ever heard "Because he's an American."
America may screw up, we may not always do what is right, but damnit when push comes to shove, we are there for eachother.
Patriotism is not a flag on your car or something you hang on your house or in your front yard, it is something that is tattood on your soul. Something that can not be given away, or bought. It is instilled.
Even if I wasn't a Marine, I would still be willing to give my life for my country and its people. That is how much I love this country!
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
enthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
I think when it comes down to it, most Americans feel that way!
quote:Yup.
Even if I wasn't a Marine, I would still be willing to give my life for my country and its people. That is how much I love this country!
I think when it comes down to it, most Americans feel that way!
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
member
93 posts
Location: ringwood,nj usa
93 posts
Location: ringwood,nj usa
Posted:
jah bless the 2 of ya'll. me too. and i was really getting full of mumbo jumbo and your writings helped me see and remember the kind of american i am. phule i can't believe you sang that song to us! thank you.
jah bless the 2 of ya'll. me too. and i was really getting full of mumbo jumbo and your writings helped me see and remember the kind of american i am. phule i can't believe you sang that song to us! thank you.
Better to Burn out than Fade out, Baby!
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2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
*Smiles*
What can I say, but thank you.
*Smiles*
What can I say, but thank you.
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
member
81 posts
Location: mesa, arizona
81 posts
Location: mesa, arizona
Posted:
i love my country. i do not love specific actions by the government, or hate filled people. i love the land i live on and the people around me. i don't see how a country can operate without people who are willing to fight to the end to see it work? if you have a problem with your country than work to make changes or go somewhere better! we (the citizens of earth) are a race of people with more technology than brains. despite inperfections, the earth is all we have, and we must learn to love it and our fellow people.
i love my country. i do not love specific actions by the government, or hate filled people. i love the land i live on and the people around me. i don't see how a country can operate without people who are willing to fight to the end to see it work? if you have a problem with your country than work to make changes or go somewhere better! we (the citizens of earth) are a race of people with more technology than brains. despite inperfections, the earth is all we have, and we must learn to love it and our fellow people.
-ivy. = ^ )
Ralph, jesus did not have wheels.--sunday school teacher, the simpsons
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2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
Patriotisim at its best
SUNDAY, JUNE 30, 2002 - ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
A young Marine restores my faith
Golden Pen Award
Each Sunday The Orange Register recognizes a letter that eloquently expresses a viewpoint or engenders a debate on a topic of public interest.
Today's winner is Ann Baker, a real-estate agent who lives in Huntington Beach
It was our normal Thursday morning business meeting at our real-estate office. No big deal. Before the meeting we hung around the bagel table, as usual, with our coffee. He stood aside, looking a little shy and awkward and very young, a new face in a room full of extroverted salespeople. An average looking guy, maybe 5 feet 8 inches. A clean-cut, sweet-faced kid. I went over to chat with him. Maybe he was a new salesman?
He said he was just back from Kabul, Afghanistan. A Marine. Our office (and a local school) had been supportive by sending letters to him and other troops, which he had posted on the American Embassy door in Kabul. He stood guard there for four months and was shot at daily.
He had come to our office to thank us for our support, for all the letters during those scary times. I couldn't believe my ears. He wanted to thank us? We should be thanking him. But how? How can I ever show him my appreciation?
At the end of the sales meeting, he stepped quietly forward, no incredible hulk. As a matter of fact, he looked for all the world 15 years old to me. (The older I get, the younger they look.)
This young Marine, this clean-faced boy, had no qualms stepping up to the plate and dodging bullets so that I might enjoy the freedom to live my peaceful life in the land of the free. No matter the risk. Suddenly the most stressful concerns of my life seemed as nothing, my complacency flew right out the window with his every word. Somewhere, somehow, he had taken the words honor, courage and commitment into his very soul and laid his life on the line daily for me and us. A man of principle. He wants to do it. Relishes it. And he came to thank us? For a few letters? I fought back the tears as he spoke so briefly and softly.
He walked forward to our manager and placed a properly folded American flag in his hands. It had flown over the Embassy. He said thanks again. You could hear a pin drop. As I looked around I saw red faces everywhere fighting back the tears.
In a heartbeat, my disillusionment with young people today quickly vanished. In ordinary homes, in ordinary towns, kids like him are growing up proud to be an American and willing to die for it. Wow. We'll frame the flag and put it in the lobby. He only came to my office once, for just a few minutes. But I realize I rubbed shoulders with greatness in the flesh and in the twinkling of an eye my life is forever changed. His name is Michael Mendez, a corporal in the USMC. We are a great nation. We know because the makings of it walked into my office that day.
Ann Baker
Huntington Beach
Patriotisim at its best
SUNDAY, JUNE 30, 2002 - ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
A young Marine restores my faith
Golden Pen Award
Each Sunday The Orange Register recognizes a letter that eloquently expresses a viewpoint or engenders a debate on a topic of public interest.
Today's winner is Ann Baker, a real-estate agent who lives in Huntington Beach
It was our normal Thursday morning business meeting at our real-estate office. No big deal. Before the meeting we hung around the bagel table, as usual, with our coffee. He stood aside, looking a little shy and awkward and very young, a new face in a room full of extroverted salespeople. An average looking guy, maybe 5 feet 8 inches. A clean-cut, sweet-faced kid. I went over to chat with him. Maybe he was a new salesman?
He said he was just back from Kabul, Afghanistan. A Marine. Our office (and a local school) had been supportive by sending letters to him and other troops, which he had posted on the American Embassy door in Kabul. He stood guard there for four months and was shot at daily.
He had come to our office to thank us for our support, for all the letters during those scary times. I couldn't believe my ears. He wanted to thank us? We should be thanking him. But how? How can I ever show him my appreciation?
At the end of the sales meeting, he stepped quietly forward, no incredible hulk. As a matter of fact, he looked for all the world 15 years old to me. (The older I get, the younger they look.)
This young Marine, this clean-faced boy, had no qualms stepping up to the plate and dodging bullets so that I might enjoy the freedom to live my peaceful life in the land of the free. No matter the risk. Suddenly the most stressful concerns of my life seemed as nothing, my complacency flew right out the window with his every word. Somewhere, somehow, he had taken the words honor, courage and commitment into his very soul and laid his life on the line daily for me and us. A man of principle. He wants to do it. Relishes it. And he came to thank us? For a few letters? I fought back the tears as he spoke so briefly and softly.
He walked forward to our manager and placed a properly folded American flag in his hands. It had flown over the Embassy. He said thanks again. You could hear a pin drop. As I looked around I saw red faces everywhere fighting back the tears.
In a heartbeat, my disillusionment with young people today quickly vanished. In ordinary homes, in ordinary towns, kids like him are growing up proud to be an American and willing to die for it. Wow. We'll frame the flag and put it in the lobby. He only came to my office once, for just a few minutes. But I realize I rubbed shoulders with greatness in the flesh and in the twinkling of an eye my life is forever changed. His name is Michael Mendez, a corporal in the USMC. We are a great nation. We know because the makings of it walked into my office that day.
Ann Baker
Huntington Beach
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
member
321 posts
Location: arizona
321 posts
Location: arizona
Posted:
i love that song ray . im really against country music but that one just gets me all choked up every time. **lightbug gives a sharp salute**
i love that song ray . im really against country music but that one just gets me all choked up every time. **lightbug gives a sharp salute**
drugs.. rock and roll. bad ass.. vegas hoes.. late night. booty calls.. shiny disco balls!!
member
321 posts
Location: arizona
321 posts
Location: arizona
Posted:
thanks nyx!! when i saw your post and read the words of you and my fellow americans i had to take an extra break from work (shhh dont tell my boss) to stop and read them all. i got goose bumps. when see us all standing together it feels like energy is shooting out of my heart or somthin.. i love that quote ray:
We all know that slavery was a big thing in America, how it was more prominate in the the south. I recall a documentery on the Vietnam War, where a reporter asked a white soldier "Why did you risk your life for that N^*()*^?" and the soldier replied in one of the most southern accents I have ever heard "Because he's an American..
thats what its all about. thats why this country will never be trampled on by some forein enemy like so many european countries. i would love to see some one try. you dont tread on america. and why?? just like you said the harrier a situation gets the stronger an more united we become. to others outside it looks like we fight amongst ourselves.. true.. but when the shit hits the fan in a snap we are all back to back brother to brother do or die, and iam willing to put that to the test any day of the week.. my deepest condolences to you for your losses on sept. 11th.
USA forever!!
thanks nyx!! when i saw your post and read the words of you and my fellow americans i had to take an extra break from work (shhh dont tell my boss) to stop and read them all. i got goose bumps. when see us all standing together it feels like energy is shooting out of my heart or somthin.. i love that quote ray:
We all know that slavery was a big thing in America, how it was more prominate in the the south. I recall a documentery on the Vietnam War, where a reporter asked a white soldier "Why did you risk your life for that N^*()*^?" and the soldier replied in one of the most southern accents I have ever heard "Because he's an American..
thats what its all about. thats why this country will never be trampled on by some forein enemy like so many european countries. i would love to see some one try. you dont tread on america. and why?? just like you said the harrier a situation gets the stronger an more united we become. to others outside it looks like we fight amongst ourselves.. true.. but when the shit hits the fan in a snap we are all back to back brother to brother do or die, and iam willing to put that to the test any day of the week.. my deepest condolences to you for your losses on sept. 11th.
USA forever!!
drugs.. rock and roll. bad ass.. vegas hoes.. late night. booty calls.. shiny disco balls!!
enthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
quote:thanks lightbug, you're the first one who said so!
my deepest condolences to you for your losses on sept. 11th.
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
member
321 posts
Location: arizona
321 posts
Location: arizona
Posted:
that hurt so bad just to see that happening. i cant even imagine what it would be like to be personally envolved. my heart goes out to you. stay strong and keep your head up....
that hurt so bad just to see that happening. i cant even imagine what it would be like to be personally envolved. my heart goes out to you. stay strong and keep your head up....
drugs.. rock and roll. bad ass.. vegas hoes.. late night. booty calls.. shiny disco balls!!
member
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
Posted:
*sigh* is this not getting a bit repetitive guys?
Maybe being a Brit I don't understand the strength of your patriarchy, but....well.... hmmmmm....I don't know. I'll just be quiet before I accidently cause an argument then have to spend the rest of the day explaining myself.
*sits with her hand over her mouth*
*sigh* is this not getting a bit repetitive guys?
Maybe being a Brit I don't understand the strength of your patriarchy, but....well.... hmmmmm....I don't know. I'll just be quiet before I accidently cause an argument then have to spend the rest of the day explaining myself.
*sits with her hand over her mouth*
Can miles truly separate us from friends? If we want to be with someone we love aren't we already there? If there is someone willing to show, and there is someone willing to see; magic happens. This is whem humans are alive. This is when the wingless fly.
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2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
I guess I didnt read that in your post Nyx, I also lost an Aunt in the Sep 11 attacks. My condolences to you as well.
Dibs feel free to comment, I'll protect ya,
*pulls up beside Dibs in his semi*
I got your back!!
I guess I didnt read that in your post Nyx, I also lost an Aunt in the Sep 11 attacks. My condolences to you as well.
Dibs feel free to comment, I'll protect ya,
*pulls up beside Dibs in his semi*
I got your back!!
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
member
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
Posted:
Well....erm..... no I'm scared man, I don't want to offend people, but....
well.....
I find it all a bit sickening. I think it's so over the top. Even the patriarchy in this country I don't like. I think the monarchy and our government area bunch of social parasites, who know and do very little for the country, and if I'm honest, I think the american government is worse than ours. I find the traditional element of patriarchy false, and it acts as a distraction to now. I guess I don't understand about your reasons for loving your country so much, when it's pretty awful (as is mine btw, I'm not just attacking you). I am in no way a miserable person and I never get worked up about things like this. But i do find it all a bit cringe worthy.
I don't see much stuff for your (or our) country to be proud about. We've caused more bad than good over time. Patriarchy is a detatchment, and a false worship. You'll never catch me standing and singing my national anthem. But I don't think you are wrong for doing it. You are entitled to do as you please. But I just...well..... find this all a bit boring.
Sorry
Dibs xxx
Well....erm..... no I'm scared man, I don't want to offend people, but....
well.....
I find it all a bit sickening. I think it's so over the top. Even the patriarchy in this country I don't like. I think the monarchy and our government area bunch of social parasites, who know and do very little for the country, and if I'm honest, I think the american government is worse than ours. I find the traditional element of patriarchy false, and it acts as a distraction to now. I guess I don't understand about your reasons for loving your country so much, when it's pretty awful (as is mine btw, I'm not just attacking you). I am in no way a miserable person and I never get worked up about things like this. But i do find it all a bit cringe worthy.
I don't see much stuff for your (or our) country to be proud about. We've caused more bad than good over time. Patriarchy is a detatchment, and a false worship. You'll never catch me standing and singing my national anthem. But I don't think you are wrong for doing it. You are entitled to do as you please. But I just...well..... find this all a bit boring.
Sorry
Dibs xxx
Can miles truly separate us from friends? If we want to be with someone we love aren't we already there? If there is someone willing to show, and there is someone willing to see; magic happens. This is whem humans are alive. This is when the wingless fly.
member
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
Posted:
*is thinking that Ray might just be turning his truck round and reving his engine at her instead now*
*is thinking that Ray might just be turning his truck round and reving his engine at her instead now*
Can miles truly separate us from friends? If we want to be with someone we love aren't we already there? If there is someone willing to show, and there is someone willing to see; magic happens. This is whem humans are alive. This is when the wingless fly.
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
*Opens the passenger door and lets Dibs up where its safe!!*
I dont know how to explain it hehe how do you write about love? How do you discribe love? It's not just pride in the people but the land as well. I have been on 4 out of the 7 continents and true I have not been everywhere but I have yet to see a land more beautiful than America. The people can be self rightious pricks yep but we can come together in a time of need unlike any country out there.
We are a band of brothers, I personally dont see racial lines I see Americans, I dont care if your a recent imigrant or a lifer like me your an American!
You could remove our govenment from existance but America would live on! I cant speek for everyone but I have an American Flag tattooed on my soul!
I hope that you understand, if not just tell me I am confusing as quantome physics and I will try to clarify.
*Opens the passenger door and lets Dibs up where its safe!!*
I dont know how to explain it hehe how do you write about love? How do you discribe love? It's not just pride in the people but the land as well. I have been on 4 out of the 7 continents and true I have not been everywhere but I have yet to see a land more beautiful than America. The people can be self rightious pricks yep but we can come together in a time of need unlike any country out there.
We are a band of brothers, I personally dont see racial lines I see Americans, I dont care if your a recent imigrant or a lifer like me your an American!
You could remove our govenment from existance but America would live on! I cant speek for everyone but I have an American Flag tattooed on my soul!
I hope that you understand, if not just tell me I am confusing as quantome physics and I will try to clarify.
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
member
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
Posted:
I hate the fact that some people are so self absorbed that they can't see through the government. I understand your patriarchy for the land, i can see that. That exists everywhere.
But it's all the "we won this war, we colonised this country and masacred thousands of people in the process and we're proud...because we CAN be! Because we're americans, and we'll kick your ass if you say otherwise" that really annoys me. But if your talking about the land and it's beauty, then yes, I appreciate that.
You'd die for your country in it's earthly state. Thats to be respected. But it's be a waste of your lfe if you died for anything else.
Oh, and thanks for the seat baby. It's nice to be staring out of the wind screen, instead of being splattered on it
I hate the fact that some people are so self absorbed that they can't see through the government. I understand your patriarchy for the land, i can see that. That exists everywhere.
But it's all the "we won this war, we colonised this country and masacred thousands of people in the process and we're proud...because we CAN be! Because we're americans, and we'll kick your ass if you say otherwise" that really annoys me. But if your talking about the land and it's beauty, then yes, I appreciate that.
You'd die for your country in it's earthly state. Thats to be respected. But it's be a waste of your lfe if you died for anything else.
Oh, and thanks for the seat baby. It's nice to be staring out of the wind screen, instead of being splattered on it
Can miles truly separate us from friends? If we want to be with someone we love aren't we already there? If there is someone willing to show, and there is someone willing to see; magic happens. This is whem humans are alive. This is when the wingless fly.
member
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
603 posts
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, Uk
Posted:
Again, I really wish for a day when governments and monarchies will not exist. But if we took them away now, all hell would break loose. I don't think the country would stand united. But again, I wish it could be. I disagree with what you are saying, but not becausec I oppose your wish, but because it's not probable. It not likely to happen.
PAUSE
Can I have a go at driving???
[ 13 July 2002, 04:29: Message edited by: dibs_star ]
quote:Is that really what you see? Because I don't. Because it's not like that. There IS racial divides and tension. I don't like it that way, but there IS. I don't agree with it, and in my ideal world it wouldn't exist, but it does exist, in the U.S more than anywhere! I don't care who or what the next person living beside me believes in or what they look like. But thats me, and great, thats also what you think. But you are definitley not a 'band of brothers'. I see no evidence of that.
Originally posted by Raymund Phule:
We are a band of brothers, I personally dont see racial lines I see Americans, I dont care if your a recent imigrant or a lifer like me your an American!
You could remove our govenment from existance but America would live on! I cant speek for everyone but I have an American Flag tattooed on my soul!
.
Again, I really wish for a day when governments and monarchies will not exist. But if we took them away now, all hell would break loose. I don't think the country would stand united. But again, I wish it could be. I disagree with what you are saying, but not becausec I oppose your wish, but because it's not probable. It not likely to happen.
PAUSE
Can I have a go at driving???
[ 13 July 2002, 04:29: Message edited by: dibs_star ]
Can miles truly separate us from friends? If we want to be with someone we love aren't we already there? If there is someone willing to show, and there is someone willing to see; magic happens. This is whem humans are alive. This is when the wingless fly.
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
Dibs, your right our forefathers killed hundreds of thousands of the natives to this land. That I am not proud of. I do not stand as a patriot because of the actions but the people and the land. All the people.
It is no exageration and no lie that America could pick any country in the world and just obliterate it!! I could care less about military might, our streangth isnt in our guns or bombs its in our people.
If a country came in to America they could kill off the military and the govenment but the real problem would be the people.
Heck you want to know how redneck I am, in my home town it is leagle to walk around with a loaded gun straped to your side!!
Dibs, your right our forefathers killed hundreds of thousands of the natives to this land. That I am not proud of. I do not stand as a patriot because of the actions but the people and the land. All the people.
It is no exageration and no lie that America could pick any country in the world and just obliterate it!! I could care less about military might, our streangth isnt in our guns or bombs its in our people.
If a country came in to America they could kill off the military and the govenment but the real problem would be the people.
Heck you want to know how redneck I am, in my home town it is leagle to walk around with a loaded gun straped to your side!!
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
Dibs of course America is a melting pot for all nations.
To say I am free of all racial negitivities is not true, we all have some things but I dont let it rule me and I do my damndest to look through all differences.
Dibs this isnt an automatic and the wheel and everything is on the opposite side that your used to.
*pulls into a big empty parking lot*
Have at it!!
Dibs of course America is a melting pot for all nations.
To say I am free of all racial negitivities is not true, we all have some things but I dont let it rule me and I do my damndest to look through all differences.
Dibs this isnt an automatic and the wheel and everything is on the opposite side that your used to.
*pulls into a big empty parking lot*
Have at it!!
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
BRONZE Member
old hand
887 posts
Location: san diego, USA
old hand
887 posts
Location: san diego, USA
Posted:
i am in a somber mood so please read the below post very mellow with a sad undertone and you will understand how it was meant to be read...
once again as most of you know i am not a man who is knowledgable in polotics. it clouds the heart, and that is mostly what i live by. i will tell you all that i am an american through and through. i am a patriotic one to boot. it is just something that comes from inside of me. you may think i am ignorant to the ways of our polotics, and there you are right. but i personally dont judge america by our politicians. i judge it by our people that are not in the limelight. the down to earth people.
an experience i had that got to me was right after the eleventh of september. i was driving down the road with a friend and lee greenwoods proud to be an american song came on, not a minute later i drove down a street that was fully clad with americans. all race and religions, holding signs up and candles consoling each other over the dead. it was heartfelt. touching and it got to me.
now i may be wrong, but i have not heard of too many things like this. usually when many people die, there is quiet mourning. but here in this little town. everyone was there for everyone.
i stopped my car and got out and met those people. many of them could hardly speak english. some could speak a multitude of languages. but it did not matter. i walked up to these people and was immediately greeted with many smiles. smiles in the face of such tragedy. warm comforting smiles. no words were needed, everyone just knew why each other where there. we were there for each other. to do anything we could to help those of us who lost loved ones on that horrific day.
now i know and understand that these events of terrorism happen every day in other countries. and that even though they may not be on the same size scale as the 11th, they are still horrible. and i know that many times my people, and MYSELF have caused these deaths. yes i am sure i have inadvertantly caused the death of people in my time as an ordnance person. and i do have mixed feelings about that.
i dont know what i just wrote. i just had to write something. i needed an escape and i wated to talk about how proud i am to be and american, no matter how politically bad we may be. i fi had to pick anywhere else in the world to be born, it would always be right here in the U.S.A...
[ 13 July 2002, 05:25: Message edited by: pozee ]
i am in a somber mood so please read the below post very mellow with a sad undertone and you will understand how it was meant to be read...
once again as most of you know i am not a man who is knowledgable in polotics. it clouds the heart, and that is mostly what i live by. i will tell you all that i am an american through and through. i am a patriotic one to boot. it is just something that comes from inside of me. you may think i am ignorant to the ways of our polotics, and there you are right. but i personally dont judge america by our politicians. i judge it by our people that are not in the limelight. the down to earth people.
an experience i had that got to me was right after the eleventh of september. i was driving down the road with a friend and lee greenwoods proud to be an american song came on, not a minute later i drove down a street that was fully clad with americans. all race and religions, holding signs up and candles consoling each other over the dead. it was heartfelt. touching and it got to me.
now i may be wrong, but i have not heard of too many things like this. usually when many people die, there is quiet mourning. but here in this little town. everyone was there for everyone.
i stopped my car and got out and met those people. many of them could hardly speak english. some could speak a multitude of languages. but it did not matter. i walked up to these people and was immediately greeted with many smiles. smiles in the face of such tragedy. warm comforting smiles. no words were needed, everyone just knew why each other where there. we were there for each other. to do anything we could to help those of us who lost loved ones on that horrific day.
now i know and understand that these events of terrorism happen every day in other countries. and that even though they may not be on the same size scale as the 11th, they are still horrible. and i know that many times my people, and MYSELF have caused these deaths. yes i am sure i have inadvertantly caused the death of people in my time as an ordnance person. and i do have mixed feelings about that.
i dont know what i just wrote. i just had to write something. i needed an escape and i wated to talk about how proud i am to be and american, no matter how politically bad we may be. i fi had to pick anywhere else in the world to be born, it would always be right here in the U.S.A...
[ 13 July 2002, 05:25: Message edited by: pozee ]
anyone got a light?
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
*Hands Pozee a light*
Right on
[ 13 July 2002, 05:27: Message edited by: Raymund Phule ]
*Hands Pozee a light*
Right on
[ 13 July 2002, 05:27: Message edited by: Raymund Phule ]
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
September 11 was a...strange day, for lack of an adequate word to describe it. I remember that I got up that morning and checked my E-mail and one of my friends had E-mailed me "OMG TURN ON THE TV!!!!!"
I was running a bit late for class, so as I walked downstairs to leave the house, I saw that the TV was on and that they were saying that a plane had hit one of the WTC towers. They were saying maybe a Cessna or a commuter plane.
I walked to class and as I came out of the woods that I walk through I saw some people having a cigarette at a table outside. I said "Hey, did you hear that a plane hit one of the WTC towers?" They said "Yeah, have you heard that a second plane has hit the other tower?" Nobody knew what kind of plane it was, but we all figured that someone had hired two Cessnas and run them into the towers.
I went to class and said "have you heard about?" to the person sitting next to me. Nobody knew, because they had gotten to class on time and not five minutes late, so they missed the news.
At the end of that class, a professor came in and broke the news. People were all over on their cell phones trying to get in touch with loved ones. Classes were canceled for the day. I remember walking home that day and seeing all the people in the woods walking around dealing with it as they could. Some were smoking pot, there were a lot of people out running (I went swimming), there were people painting and drawing...
But throughout the day, it became more and more obvious that it had been Islamist terrorists...and I became afraid. I wasn't afraid of them...I knew they would never attack Ann Arbor of all places. Terrorists do flashy things.
But I'm a semitic-looking young man. And my girlfriend at the time was an Indian Muslim.
About a week later, her mother was attacked while in Wal-Mart. Some guys in their early 20's decided that they would be brave and gang up on this tiny (5-foot) woman, an opthalmologist and a U.S. citizen, no less. Fortunately, she only got some cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Those physical wounds healed quickly, of course...but other wounds didn't.
In her description to the police who eventually showed up, she described the men...and they were all wearing American Flag T-shirts.
Sad, isn't it?
September 11 was a...strange day, for lack of an adequate word to describe it. I remember that I got up that morning and checked my E-mail and one of my friends had E-mailed me "OMG TURN ON THE TV!!!!!"
I was running a bit late for class, so as I walked downstairs to leave the house, I saw that the TV was on and that they were saying that a plane had hit one of the WTC towers. They were saying maybe a Cessna or a commuter plane.
I walked to class and as I came out of the woods that I walk through I saw some people having a cigarette at a table outside. I said "Hey, did you hear that a plane hit one of the WTC towers?" They said "Yeah, have you heard that a second plane has hit the other tower?" Nobody knew what kind of plane it was, but we all figured that someone had hired two Cessnas and run them into the towers.
I went to class and said "have you heard about?" to the person sitting next to me. Nobody knew, because they had gotten to class on time and not five minutes late, so they missed the news.
At the end of that class, a professor came in and broke the news. People were all over on their cell phones trying to get in touch with loved ones. Classes were canceled for the day. I remember walking home that day and seeing all the people in the woods walking around dealing with it as they could. Some were smoking pot, there were a lot of people out running (I went swimming), there were people painting and drawing...
But throughout the day, it became more and more obvious that it had been Islamist terrorists...and I became afraid. I wasn't afraid of them...I knew they would never attack Ann Arbor of all places. Terrorists do flashy things.
But I'm a semitic-looking young man. And my girlfriend at the time was an Indian Muslim.
About a week later, her mother was attacked while in Wal-Mart. Some guys in their early 20's decided that they would be brave and gang up on this tiny (5-foot) woman, an opthalmologist and a U.S. citizen, no less. Fortunately, she only got some cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Those physical wounds healed quickly, of course...but other wounds didn't.
In her description to the police who eventually showed up, she described the men...and they were all wearing American Flag T-shirts.
Sad, isn't it?
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
member
321 posts
Location: arizona
321 posts
Location: arizona
Posted:
yes dibs it is sad that there are racial lines drawn and no one can deny that. however the vast majority in this country is cool with any race and for the most part we will all stand togather. as far as not being proud in your country. thats kind of odd when you look at. our nations (US and england etc.) are advanceing the world and improveing relations more then any other nations. true? we know that both our countries have done bad things, but we are learning and trying to do better. i agree no goverment would be great. but like you noted mankind is not dquite ready for that. tooo many nasties out there who would take advantage.
[ 13 July 2002, 07:22: Message edited by: lightbug ]
yes dibs it is sad that there are racial lines drawn and no one can deny that. however the vast majority in this country is cool with any race and for the most part we will all stand togather. as far as not being proud in your country. thats kind of odd when you look at. our nations (US and england etc.) are advanceing the world and improveing relations more then any other nations. true? we know that both our countries have done bad things, but we are learning and trying to do better. i agree no goverment would be great. but like you noted mankind is not dquite ready for that. tooo many nasties out there who would take advantage.
[ 13 July 2002, 07:22: Message edited by: lightbug ]
drugs.. rock and roll. bad ass.. vegas hoes.. late night. booty calls.. shiny disco balls!!
member
321 posts
Location: arizona
321 posts
Location: arizona
Posted:
that so sad mike. no one that i would call a true american would do anything like that. as far as im concerned there the enemy and there the terrorists as well..
that so sad mike. no one that i would call a true american would do anything like that. as far as im concerned there the enemy and there the terrorists as well..
drugs.. rock and roll. bad ass.. vegas hoes.. late night. booty calls.. shiny disco balls!!
GOLD Member
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
HOP Mad Doctor
13,925 posts
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Posted:
Lightbug, that's the problem. It's often (not always) the most vehement flag-wavers who are the least American, just like it's often the most vehement Bible-thumpers who are the least Christian.
It poisons patriotism.
Lightbug, that's the problem. It's often (not always) the most vehement flag-wavers who are the least American, just like it's often the most vehement Bible-thumpers who are the least Christian.
It poisons patriotism.
-Mike
Certified Mad Doctor and HoP High Priest of Nutella
A buckuht n a hooze! -Valura
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
Mike, I believe that I herd your story before, I must say that it is just a tragic now as it was back when I herd it the first time. I can not speek for the future because the future is never known, I hold no grudges against any race or religion, I wish only that those responsible for their actions face justice.
Unfortunatly like the rest of the world patriots arnt perfect, nor are Christians.
Mike, I believe that I herd your story before, I must say that it is just a tragic now as it was back when I herd it the first time. I can not speek for the future because the future is never known, I hold no grudges against any race or religion, I wish only that those responsible for their actions face justice.
Unfortunatly like the rest of the world patriots arnt perfect, nor are Christians.
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
enthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
Hi everyone...
these last responses really got to me and pozee, you gem, thank you for the sweet, sweet e-mail and i will reply to it and this thread more later - as i'm at a friends house right now and have no time. Just didn't want you to think i left ya hangin!
Nyx
Hi everyone...
these last responses really got to me and pozee, you gem, thank you for the sweet, sweet e-mail and i will reply to it and this thread more later - as i'm at a friends house right now and have no time. Just didn't want you to think i left ya hangin!
Nyx
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
Enter a "Title" here:
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
2,905 posts
Location: San Diego California
Posted:
Ohh I see Pozees the only sweet one, looks like I'll have to take that dozen roses back to the florist then
Ohh I see Pozees the only sweet one, looks like I'll have to take that dozen roses back to the florist then
Some Jarhead last night: "this dumb a$$ thinks hes fireproof"
enthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
Okay...
Dibs: my ideal government would be an matriarchy, not a patriarchy, but that's another story...
As for the rest of it...yes, part of the love Ray was talking about can be interpreted as love of the land, but when you're talking about patriotism it's really about the people, and the ideals of the government we all live with. The beautiful ideas fostered in the concept of the American government are not new ones - you have only to look to the ancient Greeks to see those same concepts. I am patriotic because i love and respect those ideals on which our government is built, and because it is fundamentally good and true and worth believing in, dammit.
Evidence that i am not alone in my feelings are apparent every time the country pulls together in a crisis situation. We are a diverse nation and i wish it weren't so but there is often a great deal of racial tension. In spite of that, we, as a nation, will: *scream when the politicians fuck up (often), *cheer when they do something right that holds true to the spirit of the government as it was intended to be (sadly, not so often), and we'll *support each other and the actions of our government when something majorly bad happens.
So the whole patriotism thing really isn't at all about the USA kickin butt and having essentially wiped out the natives, etc. (and just for the record my mother is almost 100% Cherokee Indian and my father was Italian), it's a belief and pride in a concept and a philosophy of government, and it's pride in the way we do come together when the need is great.
*stands braced for the backlash!*
Okay...
Dibs: my ideal government would be an matriarchy, not a patriarchy, but that's another story...
As for the rest of it...yes, part of the love Ray was talking about can be interpreted as love of the land, but when you're talking about patriotism it's really about the people, and the ideals of the government we all live with. The beautiful ideas fostered in the concept of the American government are not new ones - you have only to look to the ancient Greeks to see those same concepts. I am patriotic because i love and respect those ideals on which our government is built, and because it is fundamentally good and true and worth believing in, dammit.
Evidence that i am not alone in my feelings are apparent every time the country pulls together in a crisis situation. We are a diverse nation and i wish it weren't so but there is often a great deal of racial tension. In spite of that, we, as a nation, will: *scream when the politicians fuck up (often), *cheer when they do something right that holds true to the spirit of the government as it was intended to be (sadly, not so often), and we'll *support each other and the actions of our government when something majorly bad happens.
So the whole patriotism thing really isn't at all about the USA kickin butt and having essentially wiped out the natives, etc. (and just for the record my mother is almost 100% Cherokee Indian and my father was Italian), it's a belief and pride in a concept and a philosophy of government, and it's pride in the way we do come together when the need is great.
quote:I hate to state the obvious but maybe you see "no evidence" of it because you're not American and you don't live here? I don't know if "band of brothers" is the appropriate term, but i know what Ray's talking about and i have seen the evidence. Guess what? Brothers fight, but they're there for each other (in most cases!) in times of need.
But you are definitley not a 'band of brothers'. I see no evidence of that.
*stands braced for the backlash!*
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
enthusiast
385 posts
Location: NorCal
385 posts
Location: NorCal
Posted:
Pozee, i know that your post was written in a somber mood but when i read it i found it very heartening!
Thanks for that shoulder and hey....look!
And Ray darling, you can save your money as far as the roses go cause a girl like me is happiest with a hand-picked bouquet of roadside wildflowers!
luv & light
Pozee, i know that your post was written in a somber mood but when i read it i found it very heartening!
Thanks for that shoulder and hey....look!
And Ray darling, you can save your money as far as the roses go cause a girl like me is happiest with a hand-picked bouquet of roadside wildflowers!
luv & light
"Dancing can reveal all the mystery that music conceals"
~Charles Baudelaire
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