All month I’ve been looking and listening for encouragement to do hope. I’ve been surprised to find comfort and inspiration around the concept of patriotism. Two of my favorite authors, Ana Maria Spagna and Brian Doyle, wrote of their love for our country.
In Ana Maria’s Letter to America at http://www.terrain.org, she writes, “Am I worried? I am. But I’m not giving up. I’m holding fast to this one word: patriotic. My word. Your word. I refuse to cede it even if I don’t know yet how to protect all it stands for.” And Ana Maria is listening to Sharon Jones’ version of “This Land is Your Land.”
Brian Doyle proclaims, “This is my country and I’m not leaving it,” in his essay
Charles M. Blow at the New York Times promotes Patriotic Opposition to Donald Trump. He writes, “…the time for being vocal has emerged.”
And in yes! magazine, Bill McKibben suggests one way to be vocal – Stop the Funding Behind DAPL.
As we begin a new year, I’m feeling fortified by these examples of patriotism.
*“Afterthoughts” are my blog version of a practice followed in some Quaker meetings. After meeting for worship ends, people continue in silence for a few more minutes during which they’re invited to share thoughts or reflect on the morning’s worship. I’ve adopted the form here for last-day-of-the-month brief reflections on headlines, quotes, books, maybe even bumper stickers.
Iris Graville - Author 
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights…They foster insight and clarity in a foggy world
Thanks for reading, Ann. A foggy world indeed! Working together, though, I believe we can bring light to the world. Glad to have your companionship on the journey.