http://digitalthom.disqus.com/blogging – writing – podcastingenThu, 05 Jul 2007 19:58:50 -0000http://www.digitalthom.com/2007/07/04/america-is-still-the-greatest-place-on-earth/#comment-3495421<p>Amen &amp; a great big Semper Fi!</p>DayngrThu, 05 Jul 2007 19:58:50 -0000http://www.digitalthom.com/2007/07/04/america-is-still-the-greatest-place-on-earth/#comment-3495419<p>Hmm, that is a great question. In some aspects yes. Everyone has an inherent love for their country. Most of that is learned from those around them, like learning to talk, or read. But are we instilling Patriotism? I don't think, at least not at the level my Parents and Grand Parents had.</p><p>My Father was a Marine who fought in Vietnam. I grew up hearing stories of his unit, the love they had for their country and each other. When I was just out of High School I joined the Marines. I've taken every opportunity to show my children what Patriotism is. I'm always standing up when our Flag is displayed or paraded; when the National Anthem is played, or the Pledge of Allegiance is recited. I think all of these things show respect for what we have and for what was has been sacrificed over the the years.</p><p>You see, our children will do what we do. If we are always criticizing the Government, the Military, never showing respect for the Flag or those who have served our Country, so will our Children. What I would rather people do is show their children how to facilitate change. How to get involved and become part of a solution rather than pointing fingers and complaining.</p>Thom AllenWed, 04 Jul 2007 18:31:48 -0000http://www.digitalthom.com/2007/07/04/america-is-still-the-greatest-place-on-earth/#comment-3495420<p>Thom,</p><p>A thought provoking call to action. Thank you for serving---I am not sure that people say that often enough. We tend to take so many things for granted in this country--even each other.</p><p>Do you think we are raising our kids to be as patriotic as our parents raised us to be?</p><p>Ann</p>AnnWed, 04 Jul 2007 16:24:14 -0000