Gaudy Patriotism

So, a while ago (a few years maybe, I don’t keep track of these things) some guy wanted to practice making an online store to help benefit his small, independent company. He was also struck with an epiphany, “how about I make a cheap product and sell it as a fund raiser!” This was a great idea, and just like the LIVEstrong bracelets, there’s really no fault or complaint to be had with it. Our friend decided to sell these yellow, ‘support our troops’ ribbon things, and would send the proceeds to families in need. I commend that man, great idea and great action. However part of me hates him as well… again, like the LIVEstrong bracelets.

Could he have foreseen what was going to come of this? No.
Was it ever his intention? No.
Do I hold him a bit responsible nonetheless? Uhh… yeah, a bit.
Does slapping that on your car really support anyone? Depends; sadly - not often.
Does putting an anti-bush or anti-war ribbon really fulfill your resistance ambitions? Maybe if you put in on your bicycle…

We all support our troops, no one wishes any ill on our soldiers (if they do, they should be kicked in the teeth). There’s really nothing wrong with having a ribbon on your car, if they money didn’t actually go to helping someone, I just don’t really see the purpose.

America is a great country because it is the land of freedom, opportunity and a several other overused, underconsidered cliches. You don’t have to be born here, you don’t have to be of a particular heritage, or even religion, THAT's why I'm proud to be an American. But I've gone off point... wait did I have a point? oh yeah, gaudy patriotism... like the title.

No where in our bill of rights is there the Right to be Obscene. So does plastering a total of fourteen ribbons and 2 flags on your car (I counted) make you more American, or a better American… or just tacky. Do I hate this woman for her patriotism? No, of course not… but I do pity her. I mean seriously, she’s just got no fashion sense whatsoever. She probably wears white after Labor Day as well. And mixes her browns and blacks and blues. And has lawn figurines. And Christmas Decorations up all year round. And those shiny basketball sized orb things in her yard too.

This made me laugh.