In a nation where money problems are a leading factor in divorce and many people declare personal bankruptcy each year, it should be clear that there’s no heroism in spending beyond one’s means.
But if we are going to spend, we should look for purchases that will alleviate our energy demands, not increase our dependence on oil. An efficient refrigerator or a hybrid vehicle would seem more patriotic choices than a gas-guzzling sport utility vehicle.
Of course, we can also improve our nation’s energy security simply by driving less and conserving heat and electricity in our homes.
Patriotism is not about running our bank accounts into the red just to perpetuate the status quo; it’s about making our great nation–and the world–a better place for ourselves, our neighbors and our children.
