Freedom to Choose: A Nuanced Take on Patriotism
Today, I woke up feeling grateful for the little things in life – like my free Applebee’s riblets meal and 30% Kohl’s discount. But then I stumbled upon a controversy that left me scratching my head. The great irony is that Michael Strahan, a man surrounded by individuals who would give their lives to defend his freedom, is being criticized for not standing during the national anthem in a way that meets someone else’s standards.
The Overdone Patriot Policing Problem
Let’s get one thing straight – Strahan has the right to stand, sit, or even ride a unicycle juggling chainsaws during the anthem. It’s his freedom, after all. And what’s more, he’s the son of a veteran who served for 23 years, grew up overseas as a military brat, and has done countless good deeds for service members and vets. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him on a Veterans Day initiative, and he couldn’t have been kinder or more personable.
The Blind Hero Worship Conundrum
As someone who’s self-aware, I know that criticizing the blind hero worship of post 9/11 veterans might not be well-received. However, there’s a limit to how much we can tolerate the manufactured outrage. Some people are so broken-brained that they’re arguing about the “rules” of standing during the anthem – from the precise positioning of feet to the handling of hats and drinks. It’s exhausting.
A Call for Nuance
Here’s the thing – respecting the troops doesn’t have to feel mandatory. We shouldn’t cry foul if someone doesn’t meet our expectations. As a veteran, it means a lot to see current and former troops honored for their service and sacrifices. Hearing their stories told on days like Veterans Day is crucial, and it’s wonderful when people show appreciation. However, we’re not owed anything.
The Hypocrisy of Outrage
What’s truly disappointing is when individuals like Todd Starnes use the son of an honorable veteran for outrage clicks. It’s clear that they only support the troops when it serves their interests. They don’t owe anyone a thing, but using someone’s story for personal gain is disingenuous.
A More Authentic Approach
Let’s focus on genuine appreciation and respect for our troops, rather than manufactured outrage. Let’s hear their stories, thank them for their service, and appreciate their sacrifices without expecting anything in return. That’s the true spirit of patriotism.
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