Patriotism: ¨The quality of being patriotic; devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country.¨ To simplify, it is the love for or devotion to one’s country. In today’s world, especially as a young person, I notice and see the decreasing love and passion for our country. A smart man told me that when this country was first formed, the men who were here had an unmatchable passionate love for this place. Nowadays, controversial opinions have formed and have greatly influenced young people as they form their own opinions. As young people or teens start to discover their voice and own opinions, I see the drastic change. As I stand in class each morning for the pledge, I notice fellow students who don’t participate. Saying those words and holding your hand over your heart, shows great appreciation for the sacrifices we will never be able to imagine. When I see this, it not only hurts my heart, but disappoints me. 

   Across the nation over the past few years, we have had conflicts arise that have created and formed strong opinions. I believe everyone has the right to their own opinion and their own voice, but some people misuse that voice, and use the first amendment as their defense. In the U.S. constitution, the first amendment states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” When people don´t stand for the pledge or the national anthem, they state this is because of their freedom of speech. While everyone does, in fact, have this right, it is misused in such a negative way. The pledge and national anthem represent the fights that have happened and that are happening to keep our country and our people free. Standing and honoring these is something everyone should take part in. 

   I am thankful for all the rights we have and the freedom we possess, but I do hate seeing it twisted and misused when people are disrespectful. Being young I want to go through life and see a society that has that burning love and passion for the country. The mindset of wanting to be the best and maintaining that. I want to see a future generation be raised up to be as fond of the country as I am, and others. As stated previously, everyone in this country has the right to their own opinion and they have their freedom to do whatever they wish. But, we would not have those freedoms and privileges without that flag. That is why it is so important to me that we respect it and honor it. 

   Whenever I am out in public and see a man or woman who has served for our country in the past or is currently serving, I try my best to thank them for their service. Everyday we have men and women fighting for our country to keep those rights and freedoms. Patriotism is such an important part of a country, and I believe it is a big part of our country. I hope to see it not only strengthen, but continue into many more generations.