Reply #99: Love and pride in America isn't jingoism [View All]

[bigtree]

Expressions of pride in our nation's defenses aren't jingoism either. At least not to the generations who closely followed the defeat of Germany and Japan.

These expressions have been perverted by the reckless unilateralism of the Bush cabal. Patriotism doesn't have to embrace the worst aspects of our political disagreements or necessarily evicerate expressions of pacifism. All of our voices are important. I still believe that America is the finest country on the face of the Earth, but I don't preclude anyone else from believing otherwise.

But I do think that our standing in the world is by no means a given. We have to demonstrate, through our words and our actions, a respect for the needs and concerns of others if we expect the same regard.

I don't think Kerry is a rigid idealouge, nor do I think that he should be held to every expression of the DLC. He has outlined a measured, reasonable approach to foreign policy which may not be seen as progressive from one view but is a marked reversal of the blundering, blustering assault on freedom and democracy, at home and around the world that the Bush cabal would have our country pursue.

God bless our country. I think that we are among the finest on the globe. Sorry if that offends you.