A Patriot's Creed

The events that took place on 9/11/2001 are some that no American will forget, even those who were not alive to witness the tragedy. Tragedies that affect the nation as a whole do not occur often, however it is events like these that lead to spikes in patriotism in the citizens. This patriotism is found in the newly revealed common aspiration among the population, which is helping those affected. American history shows many times where common aspirations lead to increased patriotism and support within the American populace. Our founding fathers knew the Revolutionary War, which called the colonists to fight for their country that had still yet to be formed. There was also the Civil War in the nineteenth century that, although first led to a split in the country, eventually led to a mass rebuilding of the south and a strong patriotism for the reformed Union. All of the wars and tragedies that took place in the twentieth century such as the two World Wars and the Great Depression led Americans to realize something must change for the better of the country. This patriotism found in America cannot be found anywhere else, however recently there has been a lack of a common aspiration among the people. My American creed is one that argues for patriotism and humility, but also a newfound common aspiration of serving those around you. Through these, America will meet progress and success as a nation.

The values I believe are the most important in an American citizen are patriotism and humility. As an American, a person is allowed certain freedoms that other countries do not provide. Freedoms like the right to vote, the right to bear arms, freedom of religion, etc. With these freedoms, I think that a humble mindset is necessary for a person to be a valued citizen. One that is not humble, or one that boasts in these freedoms is not practicing them correctly. We should instead help others to gain these same freedoms we are privileged to have. With this humility comes patriotism. Someone that is proud to be an American, but does not boast in their lifestyle is an honorable person. Some might argue that the pride of a patriotic person and the humility I am arguing for cannot exist together, but I believe pride and patriotism are different. Patriotism is a healthy and firm support for one’s country, not just being proud to live in it. With patriotism and humility, I believe anyone can be a good and helpful citizen to America’s progress as a nation.

An American creed is something that every American citizen should have, but regardless of our separate beliefs, we should all find a way to push America forward. America and its citizens must all push for some common aspiration. If everyone has the same goal, it makes progress that much easier. Modern day America has lost sight of this common aspiration, which leads to many conflicting ideas and movements that drive the nation away from progress. People often push for their individual gain instead of the success of the country. An example that was given in American Creed was a children’s baseball team. This team always has a common goal; winning. Regardless of all of the kid’s differences or conflicting beliefs, they come together and work towards their common goal. Once that goal is reached, they are all happy with where they stand, and the differences they have will never intervene with that feeling. In the same way, American citizens should have a common aspiration that leads the nation towards success. This common aspiration should be to serve others. Serving others, whether that be by joining the military or volunteering at a homeless shelter, will in turn serve the country as a whole. Serving others helps advocate for this common aspiration. It brings it to light and influences other people to do the same.

It is through this common aspiration that Americans will be able to achieve greater things for themselves, and in turn, help the nation. By serving others and America, they will be exercising their humility, and through this humility, they will find a new sense of patriotism driving them forward, toward success.