Feeling slightly political today

If patriotism is loyalty to the principles of democracy, how would this be practiced? This word, patriotism, has been loosely defined for us. We live in a country where dissent has been declared unpatriotic. This country was built on dissent, therefore it's the best way to stay loyal. The Patriot Act in particular, contradicts itself. It tells us that in order to be patriotic we must not question. We must blindly and unflinchingly believe that the government upholds our best interest. This boldly and blatantly defies the notions of freedom and independence upon which our constitution was formed. Patriotism cannot be defined by and large for an entire country as a unit. Patriotism is the ability to stay true to an individual belief rather than a preconceived notion. A patriot has an idea of their own perfect democracy and agrees or disagrees with the government accordingly. Patriotism is free will. Patriotism is the birth of change. Patriotism is felt on a personal level and must be broadcast the world over.