Making Patriotism a Positive Impact in America

America is a rich and glorious country composed of diverse people, who have in the past and now continue, to contribute to its success. America is abounding in resources, but its major resource is her people, and her continued success is dependent upon her people. This year my blogs have purposely been on ideas to make a positive impact in various areas of our lives’. This month is all about positive patriotism in our great United States of America. Having a patriotic sentiment can mean different things to different people but in continuing with our theme of positivity, patriotism that leads to a positive impact is America’s true reward.

We can demonstrate this patriotism in a variety of ways, but I suggest we should strongly consider these top seven suggestions.

Citizenship

One of the best ways to demonstrate our patriotism may be to mindfully be a good citizen. There are many ways to do this but following the law, being neighborly, showing respect and kindness to our fellow citizens, and doing no harm to any human being is as patriotic as we can get. For instance, when we are a member of a family, we do everything we can to show the family in a good light and not embarrass the family. We might consider this same sentiment for our country by not doing anything as citizens that would make our county look bad. Demonstrating citizenship is patriotism.

Honor Veterans

People who choose to serve America by joining the military should be honored and respected. Americans can demonstrate great patriotism by supporting our veterans not just verbally, but emotionally and financially.

Acknowledge America’s History

True patriotism deserves respect and honor by all the citizens. America cannot change its past but if as individuals we can all acknowledge choices we would change if we could, then it is ok as a country to do the same. Once we do this we can work as unified citizens to ensure an America at its very best. An America where all its citizens trust they are valued, and part of the country is a patriotic America.

Care for the Country

As individuals or as groups our wants and needs may vary. However, as citizens of America we have some needs that are the same for everyone. We all need clean air and water, safety, shelter, connection, recognition, and purpose. If we do not deny these to any one citizen – we will be demonstrating a patriotic country.

Recycle Reuse Reduce

This is a wonderful time to clean out the closets and donate what you do not use. It is a great time to consider how you can use less. Plus, it’s an exciting time to consider how you can reduce the pollutants you and your family contribute to your state. This could also be a great family project to help teach children how they could make an impact in their state with something they can understand more readily than say politics or racial equity.

Understand Politics

Contributing to and or participating in the political arena is a benefit to living in America and makes America special. As Americans we should appreciate that everyone has the potential to participate in politics. Everyone can have their own opinion and every citizen can utilize their right to vote. We should respect this very right, instead of being consumed with the fact that many citizens may disagree with us. The patriotism is in the fact that Americans can be involved in the political process. Politics can be Peaceful. Take advantage of your rights to express your well thought out considerations for candidates. Vote in the elections in your state. If you have the strength, consider running for office. Sometimes the best candidate is you! Try to remember that running for something is always more peaceful than running against something. Competition can be rewarding and winning can be peaceful.

Support Equity

The season is all about reaping the harvest. A harvest is meant to be full and abundant. If we plant good seeds, we will reap the benefits. We can support our needs and the needs of others without feeling the need to take support from others. Equity involves everyone having their basic needs met without shaming or purposeful withholding. It is ok that I have more than enough. It is not ok if I want you to have less than what you need. It is not ok if I want you to have less than what you need because you do not look like me or agree with me on issues.

See the Beauty

Fall is an exciting time of the year, no matter what state you reside in, to take in the beauty of the change going on in the landscape. In addition to seeing the fall colors and the buildings coming up or going down in the rush to beat the winter, Autumn is the perfect season to learn fun facts about your state. Take a drive to your capital city, talk about who your state politicians are, view a couple major cities and landmarks, or have fun quizzing one another on the state flower, state bird, or even famous people from your state. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the wonder of Autumn.

Bonus

Be thankful! America is a country that values gratitude. We have a holiday that celebrates this very fact. Try to be thankful and remember that we are blessed to be Americans. How can we be thankful? Give thanks, give help, and give patience.

When we view our lives’ in a more positive light, we can start to feel more positive. Some of us can easily see our positive impact in our daily life but we may have a harder time seeing how we fit in the bigger world. Taking the opportunity to choose just one of these suggestions to make a more positive impact in our country can help us see how we matter in the big scheme of things. Try at least one of these suggestions and you and your state (Pun intended) will be happier for it! America can be a symbol to individuals and the world of true patriotism, and our patriotism can make a tremendously positive impact. Be patriotic and make a positive impact on America!

By TMoM Team Member Dennette Bailey

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