Jul 4, 2007
Happy 4th of July
I dedicate this day to my Grandmother, Judy, who I’m sure is proudly flying the American flag in front of her house today.
We often have fun discussions about patriotism, flag-flying, and other US-related issues. Over time I’ve come to understand and appreciate her perspectives. And I admire how she displays her love of what the US represents to her (by flying the flag) while simultaneously questioning and critically thinking about US political issues.
I’m often at a loss about how to be patriotic. I’ve spent several years living outside the US and I know how much of the world feels about us, how they see us. There’s much about the US I don’t appreciate.
But I am US American. I was born here. I grew up here. I’ve lived in the West, the Midwest, and the South. I struggle with how to be “proud” of where I’m from without implying that I condone all that it does. (My solution = be exceedingly reverent to Eugene, OR, my home town and state!)
I’m often critical of the US, yet I tear up when I hear “Oh Beautiful” or “The Star-spangled Banner.” And every time I go through passport control on returning to the US I’m always happy to hear the cha-chink of the passport stamp and “Welcome home” from the passport agent. The US = familiarity, home, ease.
A few years ago I visited Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia with my parents. I’ve LOVED these living, interactive, historical sites since my first trip to Fort Lewis (think Lewis and Clark) in Oregon. At Williamsburg actors impersonate historical figures so visitors can hear them give speeches and discuss the issues of their time. After hearing their perspectives on what it meant to fight for and gain independence from England I began to understand the unique ideals the US stood for. I gained a better appreciation for the magnitude of their endeavor. I saw the US in a different light.
So today I won’t fly the flag (sorry Momo!) or use the flag/bald eagle/statue of liberty address labels I receive in the mail. But I will celebrate big ideas/ideals.
And I will make potato salad, brats, and a red-white-and blue trifle!
Happy 4th!
