(February 9, 2015 at 12:04 pm)Norman Humann Wrote: Losty, it may not seem like it to an American, but the Holocaust is still a really big deal in Europe. It left many bitter memories and many people who went through it are still alive and even if they aren't, their children are. Being an overly patriotic German just hits home to some people. Many of my family have died in concentration camps, while some of them had been affiliated with the SS. It's still fresh to many people and I can understand how some would rather not wave flags.
I think the Holocaust is still considered a big deal everywhere. As it should be. It was a horrible thing and we don't want to see it repeated.
I can also see why some people would rather not wave flags, I would rather not wave flags. I have never waved one since the time I was old enough to think for myself. As an American, I have difficulty fighting these strange urges and feelings when I hear the anthem or the pledge of allegiance. It's fucking creepy to me, that from a time I was far too young to understand I was taught to have a strong love for and pride in my nation. Take a third grade history course in the US and you will learn that America is this amazing country that has never done anything wrong and exists simply to save everyone else from themselves. (Insert eye rolling here)
I don't like, nor do I agree with blind patriotism regardless of what country you're from.
That being said, Germany is a pretty cool country. They have a much better education system that we do, they have affordable healthcare for everyone, their government takes care of needy children, they have beautiful amazing old castles, and let's don't forget Oktoberfest. I'm just saying, there is no shame in loving Germany and thinking it is now a great country. There's nothing wrong with singing your national anthem and being glad you were born in Germany. It's just my opinion. I don't think people should be made to feel guilty for the sins of their fathers, or their great grandfathers. I'm not saying forget about it that was so long ago. No, remember it, remember that it was awful, plan to not only not take part in anything like it but to actively prevent it should anyone ever try it again. You don't have to be proud of what your great grandparents did with their lives, but you don't to feel guilty over it either.
