Just think about that phrase, three simple words that together have such a profound meaning. We all hear it on the news occasionally or maybe even on the radio but what does it really mean? Well of course a necessary evil of achieving freedom in this world is war in one form or another. While war does cost a considerable amount of money, I think we all know that’s clearly not what they’re talking about. The cost of war is much more than a monetary amount. It is the sacrifice of all of the former, current, and future servicemen and women who are willing to put their lives in danger just to protect the country and people they love. They are the ones that are willing to pay the ultimate price to defend this country’s Constitution which gives each and every citizens their guaranteed freedoms.

Webster’s dictionary defines patriotism as “love that people feel for their country.” I cannot think of any better way to show your love for your country than to fight over seas to defend it and risk your own life in doing so. This of course isn’t possible for or desired by many people for a wide range of reasons. However you can still show your patriotism by commending and thanking those who do. Patriotism should be a key value that is instilled in every single American across the entire United States of America. You should be honored while also thankful for living in the best country in the entire world while also having the upmost respect and gratitude towards our soldiers who are continuously defending the country we all get to safely live in.

Whether you agree with our current or past wars, think we should be involved or even if war should ever happen is all up to you. This being said, please do not make the mistake of detesting the brave individuals who are fighting and sacrificing their lives for your very right to freely speak what you believe. I cannot think of a more careless way to waste your right to freedom of speech and protest than to talk bad about and resent the very people who are risking their lives for your ability to say those kinds of things about them.

Be thankful for all of those veterans who have fought and thankfully made it back home, unlike many of their comrades. The next time you see an elder man with a Vietnam or World War Two veteran hat on or a younger soldier who just got back from the Middle East who still has his uniform on I encourage you to thank them for their service in one way or another. Whether it is possibly buying their meal for them, giving them some gas money or simply thanking them for their service, do something. Strive to show your gratitude to all of our veterans, because without them God only knows the condition the United States and all of our freedoms would be in.