Pride

Give the American people a good cause and there's nothing they can't lick. - John Wayne

I suppose there is a necessary pride involved in any form of nationalism. I'm a citizen of the United States of America and proud of it. I was born in England, and I'm also proud of my heritage. In our dance in God, confidence and pride are essential. It's hard to dance if we're ashamed. But there is a toxic form of pride that leads to arrogance, prejudice, and violence.This form of nationalism or religious fervor creates war and division. Spiritually such behavior is anathema. The respect I have today for my religion and culture enables me to appreciate the pride others have in theirs . . . and it feels good.

I celebrate my heritage.