There is no single “right” way to become more patriotic, as what it means to be patriotic can vary from person to person and from culture to culture. However, here are some suggestions that may help:

Participate in civic activities: Participating in civic activities, such as voting in elections, attending town hall meetings, or joining a political party or organization, can help you feel like you’re making a difference and contributing to your country’s future.

Display your country’s flag: Displaying your country’s flag, whether it be on your front porch, your car, or your clothing, can be a visual representation of your patriotism.

Respect your country’s laws and institutions: Respecting your country’s laws and institutions is a fundamental part of being patriotic. It shows that you value the principles and values that your country is built upon.

“Patriotism is easy to understand in America. It means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country.” Calvin Coolidge

Remember, being patriotic means different things to different people. The key is to find what works for you and what makes you feel connected and proud of your country.

While I was writing this chapter, I had a vision. I saw a phoenix rising from ashes with some type of banner in its talons. Make no mistake about it, our country is in dire straits. There is a complete lack of justice, equality, accountability, patriotism, transparency, and SERVANT leadership. We MUST stand up as a people RIGHT NOW to correct our course. I am confident that just as a phoenix, each of us will rise from these ashes, with the colors of our nation firmly grasped in our talons.

Since I was a small child growing up in a very patriotic small town, I have loved our flag. To be provided the privilege to see it wave at several destinations across the Globe and our country through service in the Marine Corps only helped to codify the experiences into an undying love for “Old Glory”. Those three colors on that flag…the SACRIFICE, UNITY, and STRENGTH that THEY REPRESENT; those three colors have my LIFE in them. ~ Excerpt from “Cast Your Light”