[ColdNoMore]

Originally Posted by rustyp

I like the song - more than like the song. However I don't understand why many patriotic songs lean towards defending our country apparently against an enemy. I respect those that have done that for me. However there is another side of why we give that respect that seems to be getting a little lost in the background. My vote for the national anthem is America The Beautiful (Ray Charles might agree with me). Listen to all verses and it describes many attributes of our beautiful nation including defending her. But for some reason many have migrated to patriotism as an act of defense. I am a snowbird. I take a week to travel 1400 miles. Why - because this is a beautiful country full scenery beyond imagination and full of beautiful people if you take the time to get off the interstate. Take a few minutes and listen and digest - awesome
America the Beautiful. Ray Charles. (1972) - YouTube

Well said and I feel...the exact same way.

The truth of the matter is, WWII was the last time our country as a whole and it's "way of life"...were ever truly actually threatened.

Taking the time to see, admire and appreciate the beauty, variety and quantity of our natural resources, which is really at the heart of our success as a nation...is truly worth it.

BTW - very nice song.