Ever since September eleventh the word patriotism has been thrown around in conversation more than usual. During times of crisis in a country we seem to be reminded of all that we have to be thankful for, and all that we have to lose. Patriotism can mean a lot of different things and can be shown in many ways. Patriotism defines someone who has great pride in their country, respects and up holds the law of the land and honors their country by bearing arms when called upon or supporting those who do voluntarily. During time of crisis we find out who is patriotic and who is not.
After September eleventh people said they had a greater pride of their country than they did before. In some ways this is true because after these attacks Americans realized all the freedoms that are given to them and the opportunities that are out there for them made possible by their country. Where were some of these people when it was time to cast their vote? Voter turnout is as low as it's ever been in American history. It's hard to appreciate something that you yourself had no part in. If people really had pride in their country they would vote. To vote shows that you believe in the way the system works. You can't have pride in something you don't believe in.
Pride is very important to patriotism and so is respect. America was built on laws established to protect our freedoms. Freedom is the basic principle of all the laws of the land. When we break these laws we are infringing of others freedoms. Life liberty and the pursuit of happiness is what every person is entitled to. Taking this from anyone would be breaking the basic principle on any law thus disrespecting what this country was built upon. To respect your country means to live by the laws that were established to protect us.
Being patriotic is a lot more than showing pride and respecting the law America was built upon. Patriotism also means that when your country needs you, you will be there.