Patriotism In The Pledge Of Allegiance

Patriotism is a glorious thing. Most Americans think of it in association to stars and stripes, which represent our country. To others, patriotism evokes thoughts of our dazzling national anthem or the vivid hues of red, white and blue. Each person interprets the concept of patriotism in a different way. While many people can grasp an understanding of the term, only few can genuinely admit that they are patriotic. In my opinion, patriotism is so much more than a simple, daily recitation of The Pledge of Allegiance. It is an undying, vehement devotion to a country that someone can proudly call their home. One cannot just proclaim that they are patriotic, they must prove their attachment to a nation by demonstrating loyalty.
September 11, 2001 was a tragedy; a day in history that no one can remember with fondness. As the World Trade Center met it's demise, the United States was engulfed in a nightmarish state of despair, sorrow, and rage. However, a turn of …show more content…
The red is for courage, the white stands for purity and innocence, while the blue is for loyalty and fairness. The fifty white stars represent the fifty states and the thirteen stripes symbolize the original thirteen colonies. To burn the flag would be synonymous with burning everything that our country stands for. It would be a portrayal of not only great disrespect, but of rebellion as well. However, even though I personally disagree with the symbolism behind burning an American Flag, I understand why our country must allow its citizens to do so. The United States, a democratic country, strongly believes in freedom and liberty. Our government affords Americans with multiple freedoms that we take for granted. One of these freedoms is the freedom of expression. It is ironic that the freedom of expression allows people to burn the American Flag, which represents freedom within