PATRIOTISM; A KEY WITHOUT A PADLOCK?- by Albert Katabarwa.
PATRIOTISM; A KEY WITHOUT A PADLOCK? The past has been a breeding ground of the patriotic, the noble, and the brave. But does it seem that now it is lost in the echoes? But what is patriotism? Is it serving your country during wartime, or making war on injustice in your home town? Is it gathering with friends and setting off camp fire; is it about being attached to a particular patriotic club or attending these patriotism trainings or is patriotism a feeling that transcends words? Patriotism is about loving your country. The Oxford dictionary defines patriotism as ‘ devoted love, support, and defence of one’s country ’; national loyalty. But the word patriotism cannot be restricted and is very subjective in nature. One need not praise leaders or fight wars to express their feeling of patriotism. Some say it is unpatriotic to oppose the war, but consider this example; say if your kid brings home a bad report card. Are you proud of him/her? Probably not. But do you still love him?