Financial Patriotism

A flag marching in a parade or waving in a cemetery brings tears to my eyes and humbleness to my spirit.

I learned about patriotism in a one room school with Mrs. Eppenbaugh.  Every morning we went to the flag pole and raised the flag and said the Pledge of Allegiance.  Every evening, we carefully brought the flag in to the school, folding in just right.

I learned patriotism through geography, history, literature, science and recess.  Oh yes, recess was a lesson in democracy where leaders were elected and fired.  

Recess was where politics were argued and positions shared.  These discussions were quite passionate and each person took sides.  Sometimes, we argued the other position...just for fun.

In addition to the patriotism lessons, I learned the value of hard word and responsibility.  It wasn't if one went to work, but rather how much and how hard.  

Responsibility was an expectation.  Whining was not acceptable and you were not offered the chance to participate but was given a role to play in everything.  

Everyone paid their own way and no one asked for a hand out.  As individuals, we cover our expenses.

With all of those experiences God blessed me with, I never considered finances and one's handling of them as a patriotic activity.   

Until lately...

With the mess we have in our world spiritually, relationally and financially, my eyes have been opened.

What difference could we make in our country if every individual takes full responsibility for their finances?

If each of us would focus on paying off debt and build up savings for ourselves in order to be strong individuals (individual families and individual churches and businesses) it would change our world.

If my focus would be leaving a legacy for my children and grandchildren and their children, would I live my life differently?

Please don't say I'm way to idealistic.  

I'm practical.

I'm scared.

It's time to ask not what our country can do for us but for what we can do for our country.