With Veteran’s
Day yesterday, I have been thinking about the displays of patriotism that I
have seen. As I used the day off from classes as a day of relaxation, by going
shopping and getting my nails done with my sister, I thought about the veterans
as I did these trivial activities. On the way to the mall in Enfield,
Connecticut, I drove down Route 5 and noticed the American flags lining the
street. I also saw flags displayed on houses and on gravestones in cemeteries. I
was struck most by a big, red barn on the side of the road with a huge American
flag displayed on the front. I really appreciated the displays of patriotism that
I saw.
As I started
off my day today in my 5th grade field study placement, I
participated in their daily morning routine, which included listening to the
morning announcements. The principal started the announcements over the loud
speaker and we were instructed to stand for the pledge. Two students then took
over, and started us off by saying, “One, two, three, salute!” I’ve never
noticed this much before, although I realized I hear it every day that I am
there. I thought it was a very creative and patriotic way to start the pledge.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, we remained standing for a moment of daily
moment of silence. This is respectful, and seems like a great way to start of
the day.
While these
patriotic acts are very nice, I believe that there is still more we need to do
to improve on honoring our country and what people are doing, and have done to
secure our freedom. Although I am being hypocritical, considering the way I
spent my day yesterday, I think that it would be good if retail and other
businesses closed on holidays like Veteran’s Day. By doing everyday activities
like working or shopping, we are not necessarily honoring veterans. I think that
having most businesses closed on this day would be the patriotic, honorable thing
to do. That way people can take part in events of their choosing, like parades,
ceremonies, and spending time with veterans, and family members.
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