Patriotism.
What is it? you ask.

Patriotism to me is part of our history.
It is "Give me liberty, or give me death."
It is we "would rather die on [our] feet, than to live on [our] knees."
It is "United we stand, divided we fall."
It is "We the people..."
And "...liberty and justice for all."

Patriotism to me is the American people.
All those who fight in the courthouses and on the battlefields for freedom.
All those who lie buried with flags on their headstones each memorial day.
All those who stand proudly with their hands on their hearts and their eyes on the flag.
All those who visit the polls on Election Day, to give their say.
All those who volunteer to care for and serve our land and our citizens.

Patriotism to me is a deeply rooted character.
It is determination to see it done and done right.
It is faith in God and in ones countrymen.
It is courage to stand for what is right regardless of the cost.
It is honesty and integrity and ingenuity.
It is compassion, respect, and responsibility.

What is patriotism? again you ask.

Patriotism is the feelings of love and pride that move America's citizens to take action.
To improve and defend her.
To care for their neighbors at home and afar.
To wave the flag and sing "Oh, say can you see..."
To enlist in the military, run for public office, or volunteer.
And to revere her as "the land of the free and the home of the brave."

That...is patriotism to me.