Defining Patriotism

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Richard Stengel's "The New Patriotism" was helpful in understanding the theme of this presidential election [July 14]. Upholding American ideals makes us better citizens, but candidates tend to look for hot buttons to create fear. Dissent isn't unpatriotic. We need a definition of patriotism that recognizes our nation's proud heritage but also how much better we can be.
Steven A. Ludsin, EAST HAMPTON, N.Y., U.S.

Putting aside the self-serving definitions of the political extremes, patriotism means believing in the best we were, are and can be, while learning from the missteps along the way. If we love our nation, we should have faith in its people. It is unpatriotic, however, to believe your nation can't compete in a global market, can't endure immigration or flawed leadership, is collapsing from license and lawlessness or must conform to your interpretation of Scripture. Understanding that is what will make this a better place to live.
Richard Sem, TREVOR, WIS., U.S.

The issue is not how patriotism should be expressed. The issue is whether it is a positive force in the world. I don't think it is. Patriotism is what kept the media from questioning plans for invading Iraq before the war started. Fear of being labeled unpatriotic is what kept more legislators from voting against authorizing the invasion. The U.S. has a long history of not living up to its ideals. That's because more importance is placed on shallow expressions of honor and love of country than on making sure that all people are being treated equitably. We tend to excuse our past mistakes and continue to make them over and over.
Mary Brewerton, DENVER

Let's Still Meet in St. Louis
Re TIME's Postcard from St. Louis: It's clear that the loss of Anheuser-Busch would be a huge blow to the city's self-esteem [July 14]. But St. Louis, Mo., still has a beautiful urban park, a great orchestra, many art venues and an enviable architectural tradition.
Dominic Ricciotti, WINONA, MINN., U.S.

Zimbabwe's Suffering
The gentle people of Zimbabwe are putting up with the impossible [July 14]. Mugabe may well want to go into luxurious retirement but is prevented from doing so by his henchmen. The self-interest of this handful of people has to be addressed to achieve a change of leadership. If the culture of corruption is not addressed, no future government will bring the change that this lovely country deserves.
Tjarda Barratt, ELNORA, ALTA, U.S.

Letter from a Patriot: A Pledge of Allegiance
I've been to more than 40 countries and know that good citizens everywhere feel a twinge when their anthem is played [July 7]. Americans feel this for reasons as many and varied as strings on a harp. Our successful fight for independence. Our defense of freedom everywhere. Our shame over Indian wars, slavery and bigotry. Our pride in battle victories, commercial success and world leadership. But the Preamble to our Constitution sets the tone that makes us unique: "... in order to form a more perfect union." This simple phrase helps Americans recognize our achievements, our imperfections and our constitutional commitment to improve. We are not perfect. But we keep working at it.
Bill Hayes, HARTLAND, WIS., U.S.