Now, to start things off, I believe in America, i believe in a land of opportunity free from religious overtones or a ruling tyranny. I believe in capitalism and dreams. the US may not be all those things currently, but i believe it can get there and be a strong nation like we once were. I look at the people we were at the end of the 2nd world war. The men were tough and willing to die for their country because they believed in it. Now, when i talk to people everywhere the sentiment is the same; if they were drafted they'd move to canada or mexico. And it bugs the shit out of me because so many of these people are the ones who bitch the most, talk up how great this or that candidate is, how much better the europeans handle things, how we should have this and that and blah blah blah... It doesn't make any sense.
The US ain't perfect, never has been and never will be... but to only believe in a perfect nation, to only fight for a perfect land is nonsense. you don't fight for perfection. you fight for the right to have a say in trying to create a better nation, you fight so that no one can come in and tell you how to live, you fight so that future citizens can enjoy the same liberties that you have been able to enjoy, you fight for a way of life you believe in. When did this sentiment start though?? Was it vietnam? Was it the cold war? was it baby boomers being raised by a generation of veterans or...? I think the current administration has had a huge impact on the lack of patriotism. What could've been a great continued sentiment of anti terrorist-pro american patriotism was completely lost and rather foolishly by george bush because he and his crew are such massive liars. Post 9/11 saw unprecedented pro US feelings from all citizens and people seemed ready to fight again.
I hate george bush, i think he should be tried as a criminal the day he leaves office, but if i were drafted in a war to fight for americas freedom i would fight that fight and i would like to believe there are more people like me. I think more should be done in america to generate national pride. i believe in israel's policy of making all citizens join the military at 18. I also think that the pay scale for the military should be vastly increased. I lived in san diego for a time and let me tell you, the people in the military are fucking retarded, some of the dumbest people i have ever met. I mean scary stupid, close minded target practice for camels stupid. It shouldn't be that way. Making a career out of defending your nation should bring you more than 14k a year.
I would like to hear other americans opinions on this or if they have encountered it as well. I personaly hope the US never has to fight a war again, but i would like to believe that if we had to, our citizens would be lining up in the streets to defend our freedom.