A country is not just land; it is not just a flag. A country is its people. If patriotism is a love of and loyalty to one’s country, you can be patriotic by caring for the people around you: your family , your friends, your acquaintances, and to those you haven’t met.

Edith Cavell was a World War I nurse and said, “I realize that patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone.” Patriotism goes beyond rhetoric and slogans about loyalty.

By being an active part of a community, you are being loyal to the sacrifices that other people have made to keep this country great. Your daily conduct, your respect for other people, and the way you carry out your beliefs, make America the country that it is.

The motto of the United States government is , “E pluribus unum.” This Latin phrase was suggested by the committee Congress appointed on July 4, 1776 to design a “seal for the United of America.” It translates “Out of many, one.” (Check the banner the eagle is holding on the dollar bill.)

It means that all Americans are united as one. We are the sum of America. By living a good life, by effecting other people, you are America. You are being loyal to the beliefs that created this country. Patriotism is not a single act. It is not a phrase or emblem. Loyalty to America is a way of life.

Your actions combined with others make America strong and enable us to help other people.

“The love of one’s country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border?” – Pablo Casals, Spanish Cellist and Conductor.

You show loyalty by supporting your government and if you think that they have made mistakes you try to convince them otherwise. In other words you may disagree but you are still patriotic and love your country. You do not attack individuals but may attack their policies.