Inspiring Patriotism: How the Fourth of July Calls for Unity - July 1, 2023

Happy Fourth of July! Happy Independence Day!!! On behalf of the entire Parish and School Staff, and the Paulist Fathers, I wish you a safe and most enjoyable Fourth!

The celebration of Independence Day is certainly a time to take off, relax, have fun, watch some fireworks, eat some hotdogs and watermelon, listen to some rousing John Philip Sousa marches, and generally have a good time. But it is also a time to stop and reflect on the reason for this annual celebration. It is, I believe, much more than just the birthday of our nation, but is also a time to reflect on the founding principles of our country. It is always worthwhile to re-read the opening paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence, which set forth the founding vision of our country.

The Fourth of July is an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the virtue of Patriotism. I fear we do not sufficiently hold up and extol the love of country that is the virtue of patriotism. And even more importantly, now more than ever, we need to clearly distinguish and contrast the virtue of patriotism with the vice of nationalism. Patriotism is a realistic and sober love of our country based on realism and truth.

Patriotism not only celebrates the strengths and virtues of our nation, but also recognizes where the work of ensuring “liberty and justice for all” still falls short and needs to be improved. We take inspiration and courage from the example of patriots and true Americans in the past so that in confidence we can continue their work. Our heritage is the inspiration to continue the work that they had so nobly begun. And there is still plenty of work to do.

The vice of nationalism, on the other hand, is not about inspiration but about fear: fear of others, fear of change, fear of new approaches, ideas, ways of doing things. Nationalism divides and excludes, and separates people into warring groups.

There is way too much nationalism in our country today, and not nearly enough true patriotism. So I encourage you, as you observe Independence Day, to take some time to reflect on your own attitudes and beliefs. How can you live more fully as a patriot, and how can you let go of attitudes and habits that tend more towards nationalism? And the more we can embrace true patriotism, the better we can celebrate our Independence Day.
 

God bless,