American Civility

I had the opportunity recently to describe the difference between true patriotism and blind patriotism.

One can look at America, and the things we do wrong or the things we don’t do right, and conclude that in many ways she is not the greatest.

But she is the greatest because our rights and liberties are codified in the Constitution and Bill of Rights, the first and only country to offer such guarantees.

Because there is no royalty or privilege.  Each person is equal under her Constitution and afforded the same rights.

Because of the infinite opportunities she presents to fulfill one's dreams.  This is the largest meritocracy in the world.

Because the hope for freedom she affords others who live outside her frontiers.  People risk their lives to come here, not to leave.

Because of the endless kindness of her people: America is the most generous of nations.

Because we are, sometimes to our detriment, the guardian of liberty for oppressed people in other nations.

Because only America can defend against injustice and aggression.

Because only America can lead in great endeavors—the exploration of space, the conquest of disease, and eradication of poverty.  This is work in progress to be sure, but driven by America's infinite hope and faith and the ingenuity of her people.

Because individuals or groups may stray at times, sometimes for long times, toward what is wrong, but our system's natural reaction will force a return to justice.  America's moral compass may need calibration periodically, but it always serves.

Many things are wrong with our country.  But she is the greatest. The juxtaposition of these sentences should dispel the doubt that this is blind patriotism.  A true patriot, like the Christophers, lights a candle rather than curses the darkness of our country’s foibles, but always loves the room seeking the light.