Paris Response Numero Uno

I'm going to Paris. Dr. Mary Shepard is preparing me. Here is the first fruit of that preparation. Bon appetit:

True patriotism seems to be somewhat waning in this day of ever increasing global awareness. Though my knowledge of world cultures and more specifically, of foreign opinions on their respective homelands is minimal, I am most certainly of the opinion that nationalism in most countries is far from what it was a mere century ago. This is apparent in the United States, where it seems apathy towards politics is the new black. True, a vast number of Americans are fanatic as ever, hopeful for the future of the country. However, this spirited support has not kept a great chasm from settling in our midst. The Donkeys and Elephants are quite possibly the farthest they have ever been from sleeping peacefully in the same stall than any other time in our brief American history. At such a time as this, one must ask, “What really is patriotism and what should it look like?”

            Patriotism is harder to preserve when division is reigning. Patriotism is also hard to preserve when history is forgotten or simply ignored. Patriotism cannot coincide with ungrateful citizens. Verily, patriotism suffers when a nation’s founding principles are diluted or compromised. Sure, change is necessary and at times beneficial. However, total departure from the building stones of the past causes weakness in a structure, ultimately leading to disaster.

            I believe Americans could learn a lot from the French, certainly in regards to patriotism. Though my studies of their culture have only just begun, the vastness and depth of their persevering love for their country was made obvious to me in their fighting what might seem a minor battle: keeping the teaching of the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, in the curriculum for school children. Though some might label the bloody war song as inappropriate to teach to young children who desperately need to learn the importance of peace, I believe an even greater potential problem is at hand—forgetting the past.

            History ought not ever be shied away from. A people’s history is what defines them. A people’s history is what informs them of how they should live today and how they might proceed towards improving the future. Without remembering how and why a people did what they did, how can they make a better decision when presented with similar circumstances in the future?

            Teaching the, at times, gory La Marseillaise to youngsters has potential to accomplish so much more than opening their eyes to the terrors of war. Let them grasp the depth of their ancestors’ love for them personally. Let them witness the beauty of sacrifice. Let them feel the sadness of death and unwonted pain. Let them see that passion and severe loyalty are a double-edged sword that can lead either to brutality and bloodshed or to a future full of promise. However, with all of this, instill in them hope that a better solution for all of the troubles of life may have yet to be found. Ultimately, let them see that the potential for tomorrow is theirs for the fulfilling.

I would love to hear your comments or thoughts. :)