
Pa∙tri∙ot \ Middle French \ 1605 \ one who loves his country and supports its authority and interests.
Pa∙tri∙o∙tism \ 1726 \ love for or devotion to one’s country.
Both from Webster’s 9th New Collegiate Dictionary published in 1991.
Today is an interesting day for all true American patriots. Our President Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, and the reactions from people across the country and around the world are fascinating to observe. Much has been made on the political right in this country over whether or not the President has done anything to deserve this honor. I am not interested in that particular point so much as I am intrigued by the dilemma this drama poses, and saddened by what I think it truly means.
If we consider the meanings of the words patriotism and we value those who are true patriots, the simple truth of the matter is that we should always be glad when anyone from our country, in any field or endeavor, wins a prestigious international award like this. For any American President to be so honored, or any citizen in any field, it symbolizes American authority and it advances our national interests. All people who purport to be filled with love and devotion for the
Of course, many people in
For my part, I am glad that the President won the Peace Prize but it seems to me to be far less about this President than it is about the last one. The reason the committee awarded the prize probably had much more to do with how our last President behaved and how our country has come to be perceived than it did with the man currently in office. Given the power of our nation, our position in the world, the committee seems to be saying with this selection that they value an American President who is open to talking first, and who is willing to listen to them. Surely, demonstrating that willingness advances our interests in the world. Their recognition of this renewed willingness supports our authority on the international stage. And for all of us who love this country and are devoted to it, today should be a day for both celebration and reflection about those developments.


