When Patriotism is Misused
As someone who spent 26 years following my husband, an Air Force Colonel, around the world, I carry with me a deep respect for the military—not just as an institution, but as a living embodiment of service, duty, and integrity.
Those years were filled with frequent moves, new cultures, and the strong bond shared by military families. I witnessed the quiet sacrifices made daily by service members and their loved ones—sacrifices rarely visible to the public. The deployments, the missed birthdays, the holidays spent apart, the resilience it takes to recreate a sense of home wherever you're stationed. These are not abstract ideas for me—they are lived truths.
That’s why recent events are leaving me profoundly disturbed. Celebrations intended to honor our military legacy now appear entangled with personal ambition and political spectacle. The 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army should be a sacred moment—a time to reflect on collective service and national gratitude. Instead, it feels as though this milestone is being used to serve the image of one person, rather than the many who have truly served.
I have always chosen to keep my public voice centered on compassion, healing, and inner guidance—not politics. And I still believe that kindness is more powerful than harsh words. But I can’t ignore the painful irony: many of the communities who placed their trust in certain leaders are now watching essential supports—like SNAP, Medicaid, and veterans’ services—come under threat.
This isn’t about party lines. It’s about people. Real lives. Real needs. Real consequences.
I don’t wish harm or hardship on anyone, and I certainly don’t believe in taking pleasure in someone else’s suffering. But I do believe we must recognize how vital it is to look beyond slogans and personality when choosing our path forward. Democracy doesn’t protect itself. We must stay awake. We must care.
For my part, I continue to support organizations that work to uplift the most vulnerable. I contribute quietly, behind the scenes. I vote. I stay informed. And I hold tight to the belief that our country can be better—more reflective of the ideals that our men and women in uniform so courageously defend.
Not everything needs to be loud to be meaningful. Sometimes the most powerful kind of action is quiet, steady, and guided by our soul’s quiet knowing.
Let’s honor the spirit of service with the dignity it deserves.