There has been so much said recently about Patriotism, Heroes and being a true American. I have kept my mouth shut (mostly).Election Day is really the day we celebrate being Americans. The 4th of July is a great picnic and the fireworks are always appreciated but Election Day is the real celebration.
The talking heads and pundits all have their take on what being a true American means. The armchair politicos and bar stool experts will tell you what they think Patriotism is and who they think is a Hero.
On Election Day my mind turns to someone I consider to be a Hero, a Patriot and a great American. He served in Vietnam, by choice. I'm sure he could have come up with some type of deferment but he didn't. He served his country because he felt it was the right thing to do. He came home from the war and was so ill treated for his service that he hesitated to tell people where he had been. This did not sour or embitter him to his country, he remains proud to be an American.
He owns a small business, has helped many people get started in their careers and has always paid his taxes. According to some, that alone makes him a Patriot although I'm not too sure. He is involved in the political process as an informed voter. He is not afraid to argue a position even if it is not popular. He is not overbearing in his opinions and is always willing to listen to the other side.
This man taught his children to be fair, to be aware and to be unafraid to stand up for what is right. He taught his children that liberal is not a dirty word and neither is conservative. He taught his children that every vote counts and even one person can make a difference. He practices what he preaches and in my mind this makes him a hero.
In a time when there seems to be a spin on everything from the environment to a candidate's wardrobe it's nice to know there are real heroes we can count on. We may not be able to vote for them but we can count on them to vote with us.
Thanks Dad!
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