Definition of Patriotism

Patriotism, like many other terms, can be defined in many different ways that vary from person to person. Obama's definition of patriotism is that patriotism is loyalty and love for one's country. However, Obama also adds that patriotism also includes having loyalty for the country's ideals. The patriotic images on pages 254 and 255 reflect parts of Obama's definition of patriotism. The lady covered in red, white, and blue shows her love for her country, while the image of Uncle Sam reflects what Obama said about respecting the country's ideals. The third image that says "Gay Patriot" shows how anyone can be patriotic towards one's country, regardless of things such as sexual orientation.
For me, patriotism also means having loyalty and love for one's country. I believe that respecting the ways of one's country is the most important thing. It doesn't matter if we disagree with some things that our country's government does because nothing in life is perfect. Instead of criticizing our country's government, we should do something to change it. Having and portraying our loyalty and love for our country shows our patriotism for the country that we call "home," regardless if it's not our country of birth.