July 4th

Hey everyone, I know I don't post here very often, but I had some things to say, and I don't have my own blog.

Today is Friday, July 3rd, the day before what should be the most celebrated holiday on the calander for every American. However, I have really heard very little about it this year. I have become concerned in the past couple years about my country. Not about the economy, not about the jobless numbers, not even about N. Korea or Iran. I am concerned about the lack of patriotism in America today.

I remember growing up, July 4th, it was a lesson in patriotism from my father, and the fireworks. I never had a doubt that my father was proud of his country, even after coming home from Vietnam to the rediculous "welcome" our wonderful American people gave him (being spit on, called a baby killer, etc...) my father never lost his pride in his country. From a very early age, both my parents instilled in me a great sence of pride in America. Now, I see kids (early 20's) who think that the Canadian health care system is better then the greatest healthcare system in the world. I see people who think France and Germany's social programs are "the way it should be". When did this happen? The only thing I can think is that as parents, we are not doing enough to instill the values of patriotism into our children.

Tomorrow, I will be taking my children to the fireworks. But I will ensure they know why we are celebrating. Great men fought and shed blood for this great country. The least we can do is pass it on to our children.

Glenn Sinclair