Interesting quote

I was spending time in google reader recently and came across the review of a British book, "The Progressive Patriot: a search for belonging" by Billy Bragg. Below is the quote that grabbed my attention:

Now, more than ever, "we need to challenge the Right's monopoly on patriotism - not by proclaiming our blind loyalty to our country, right or wrong, but by developing a narrative which explains how we all came to be here together in this place".

I too have wondered why it is that it seems like only one side of the immigration argument seems to have taken a near monopoly of the definition of a Patriot. (capitalized intentionally) We've all heard things like, "the real Americans" and other catch phrases that do nothing but create discord and a very small, homogeneous definition of American and especially a "patriotic American". To be in favor of a just, comprehensive immigration legislation is, absolutely, not evidence or proof of one's hate for our country. The vicious attacks from these so called patriots need to to have a reasonable, respectful and loving answer. We must not engage in the same type of vitriolic attacks that are hateful and violent. The cycle of accusations hurled at people who's only wrong doing has been to have an opinion different than yours is counter productive in this conversation. Violence will only create more violence.

So why don't we try conversing with each other? Heated, sure! As long as you are willing to listen, respectfully, to someone state their opposing case as passionately as you have done yourself! Even further than that, perhaps be willing to concede that your interlocutor may be making a reasonable argument that can contribute to the discourse and maybe even the answer to the problem!