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What makes us feel patriotic?
A homily preached for the congregationat Eliot Unitarian Chapel in St. Louis, MO
By Jan Chamberlin
On July 4, 2004
Today is the 228th birthday of the United States of America. An experiment in Democracy that the British said would not work. Founded on principals of freedom and equality, theoretically. It isn't perfect, but the vehicle is there to improve it, and many people devote their lives to that.
By definition, a patriot is one who loves, supports and defends one's country. If patriotism is this love, this tugging at our heartstrings, then let us recognize it, rejoice and celebrate it. When and why does it happen?
Like any love, it is when we get even a hint of meaningful connection. It could be the sight of a flag or fireworks. The smell and sounds of a carnival every 4th of July. It can be the sound of the Star Spangled Banner, or another patriotic song. I feel it when I watch our athletes compete in the olympics.
Let's see what some of you think. (read submissions)
For me, driving across the country, (to GA in Calif.) I had some patriotic moments. That kind of drive reminds me of how really grand and breathtaking this land is, with mountains, plains and deserts. Another time I felt overcome with patriotism was when I stood in Plymouth Mass. at the top of the hill overlooking the harbor. I felt I was on sacred ground because the steps of the Unitarian Church had been the location of the original pilgrim stockade. With the Boston Bound kids, I looked down the hill at the rows of houses where the original settlement had been. I shared the pilgrim's vision. Then we all went to Quincy, Mass. and visited the only 2 U.S. presidents entombed in a church. The Adamses, and their wives in the Unitarian church of Quincy. I wasn't born Unitarian, but my adopted religion made me feel more American.
Those of us who are sick of national violence turn away from militaristic music and flag waving. Unfortunately, today's freedoms were earned by yesterday's soldiers. Let us find the courage to fight today's battles in our own ways, for tomorrow.
I'll close with a paraphrase from William Sinkford, our UUA president.
"When the administration put a constitutional ban of same sex marriage on the agenda, they put HATE on the agenda. When we perform same sex marriages, we put LOVE on the agenda. We must LOVE stronger than they HATE."