Beware the self-righteous pimps of patriotism
by Greg
Skilling
for the Louisville
Independent Examiner
I hold this truth to be self-evident; those who wrap themselves
in the flag are definitely hiding something.
Patriotism, like religion, has been a motivating force for good
and an excuse for evil. Now that we have all of these Tea Party
idiots running around like colonial drag queens, I thought it
would be a good time to examine the depths of their
patriotic deception.
As a general rule, the toughest among us dont really say a
whole lot; they dont really need to. When I envision the
men who drafted the Declaration of Independence, I dont
picture a lot of flag-waving hoopla. Instead, I see a deliberate
look and a slight nod; reminiscent of two people trying to
reassure each other before they jump out of an airplane for the
very first time. I see determined men fighting off a tidal wave
of apprehension, not televangelists engaging in self-serving
theatrics.
As July 4th approaches, I look at the Sarah Palins and
Glenn Becks of the world with utter contempt and disgust.
Maybe its because Im angry about how they cheapen the
flag, twist our heritage, or simply that Ive never liked
pimps of any sort. The pimps of patriotism sell freedom like
snake oil and preach democracy like a corrupt pastor fleecing his
flock. Ordinary citizens, quiet patriots, some who vehemently
disagree with each others politics search for the common
ground of reason hoping the irrational vitriol will subside
before it all gets out of hand.
Patriotism spurred our soldiers onto the beaches of Normandy,
Marines into the carnage of Belleau Wood, and the summit of Mt.
Suribachi. It commanded poor, white southerners to give their
lives to perpetuate the enslavement of others, put good people on
McCarthy-era blacklists, and now threatens to put a bunch of
loud-mouthed, know-nothings into national office. The virtue of
patriotism almost always depends upon the character of its
custodians.
Those who urge the rest of us to restore the honor of America
denigrate our national character. They promote the existence of a
disease that only their book tour can cure. The truth is that
America is, and always has been, a work in progress. Our national
honor has always depended upon our ability to choose right over
feeling righteous. Beware the self-righteous pimps of patriotism.
The more patriotism is engulfed by rhetoric and ritual the less
we can depend upon the faith and conviction of those who promote
it.
For me, America has truly been the land of opportunity. I believe
patriotism has a strong place in our society. Thats why
Im not about to let some flag-draped charlatans pervert my
faith without a fight.
Trinity Broadcasting Network: The Prosperity Gospel