‘How can patriotism be demonstrated?’
EDITOR’S NOTE: The Arkansas State Elks Association awarded local fifthgrade student Arbriana Irwin second place in the state Americanism Essay Contest. Irwin represented Main Street Visual and Performance Art School in Hot Springs and Lodge 380 in Hot Springs. The following was her submission.
How do you think patriotism could be demonstrated? Patriotism is the quality of being patriotic; devotion to and vigorous support for one’s country. If you want to be patriotic, I know a few ways to demonstrate patriotism.
One way to demonstrate patriotism is to put the American flag outside of your home. That is an example of patriotism because you are showing celebration, love, and reverence for your country. The flag represents the United States with its colors, stars and stripes. The stars symbolize the 50 states that make up America and the stripes stand for 13 colonies. Red symbolizes hardiness and valor. Blue represents vigilance, justice and perseverance. Then, white stands for purity and innocence.
Another example of patriotism is the celebration of Independence Day. On July Fourth, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. From then on, this holiday became the birth of America’s independence. Today, we demonstrate patriotism by family cookouts, barbecues, and lighting fireworks on Independence Day. Here in Arkansas, grilling and barbecuing food is a Southern staple for patriotic festivities.
The last example for you to demonstrate patriotism is by thanking those who serve our country. If you see a soldier, thank them for protecting and serving our country. You could thank a policeman for bringing justice to our country. The reason we do this is because they have kept us safe. Showing your gratitude to them is to show patriotism, as well.
Patriotism can be demonstrated in many ways. It is important to be patriotic. Demonstrating patriotism is a way to celebrate, show love, admiration, and loyalty to your country. Hanging the American flag, celebrating Independence Day, and showing gratitude to servicemen and women, are ways anyone could demonstrate patriotism. Those are a few descriptions of how patriotism can be demonstrated.