Smith had written that he had read enough history and lived long enough to know there is a danger in being too ecstatically patriotic, too effusive in our response to someone who has done us wrong.
My definition of patriotism is partially based upon 35 years as a Navy wife, but I can’t define patriotism as well as Adlai Stevenson did. For years, I carried Vice President Stevenson’s definition of patriotism in my billfold, until it became tattered and yellow. I wish the exact wording would come back to me. He said that patriotism is not frenzied outbursts, but the calm dedication of a lifetime to one’s country.
Isn’t that what Smith is saying? I think so. In other words, I may be effusive, erratic, and posture as I wave the flag about to show how angry I am at the enemy. However, that is not patriotism. That is a catharsis which only serves my broken spirit. If our country’s leaders were as effusive as I can afford to be, that would truly be dangerous. We feel safer with leaders who are calm, deliberate, and dedicated. Mr. Smith and Adlai Stevenson were right.
By the way, I would still have the quote made by Stevenson on patriotism, but I sent it to the widow of a World War II veteran several years ago. Art, the veteran, lost his leg in the Battle of the Bulge when he was only 18 years old. He dedicated the rest of his life to a career in the CIA, participating in community affairs, and teaching chemistry to children. I think he demonstrated that he was patriotic.
Hilda Mitchell
Pinebluff
