Today’s youth needs to reflect on patriotism. Soon they will hold the future of democracy. Being patriotic means to love one’s country and be devoted to its welfare. Our youth must learn to love their country. As parents and educators we need to make our youth rise above status quo. They must become citizens who respect their birthright and pass it on to the next generation. Children and young adults need to regard the values of liberty, equality and justice on which this country is founded. It’s our job to help our youth understand that America is worthy of their respect and love. We must teach them to be worthy of being a U.S. citizen.
PATRIOTISM IS TAKEN FOR GRANTED
Often, students tend to take freedom for granted. Our children must learn about citizenship. They must hear and read stories of our founding fathers. Or youth must learn patriotic songs and sing them in schools and churches. They must learn about their government so they become knowledgeable voters.
In school or at events, begin with the Pledge of Allegiance or the Star Spangled Banner. After the pledge, sing a patriotic song. This is one way to learn about being patriotic. It will open a discussion on patriotism.
Each parent and educator needs to find ways to model their own patriotism. We need to say good things about our country. We must see the good in the community in which we live. We must have positive comments about our government leaders and our country’s heroes. Showing respect to our veterans is a must. And, learn about our national history by visiting national monuments.
4th of July parade
A guide to teaching children and young adults about patriotism can be found at www.parents.com, 10 Ways to Teach Kids to Love America. Our democracy cannot survive without self-disciplined people. Preserving our democratic way of life requires the teaching of patriotism.
Preserving our customs involves teaching our youngsters the true meaning of patriotism. In the words of President Barack Obama: “We, the People, recognize that we have responsibilities as well as rights; that our destinies are bound together; that a freedom which only asks what’s in it for me, a freedom without a commitment to others, a freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, is unworthy of our founding ideals, and those who died in their defense.”
