Obama on Patriotism

Barack Obama gave another flowery speech, this time on patriotism. As usual, I had to read the transcript, because A) I have a job and B) his speeches really annoy me.

He starts out by reminding us that a revolution was fought against the tyranny of an Empire for the sake of liberty. It's too bad he doesn't really understand the definition of liberty. I doubt the founders of our great nation were fighting to create a government to be the great Robin Hood of the world. He said we need to think about our commitments not just to our nation, but to each other. Hmm....can you say "collectivist" anyone?

He asks how in this global economy we will ensure "the winners maintain allegiance to the less fortunate". I'd like to know his definition of "winner". Are "winners" the people who work hard, pay their bills and save for their retirement? Who is the "less fortunate". The person who doesn't hold a steady job, buys a home he cannot afford, runs up his credit cards and skips out on his kids? Whose job is it to define "winner" and "less fortunate". Will he set up a committee?

Obama then reminisces about the culture wars of the 1960's and the "so-called counter-culture" who were "burning flags" and "blaming America for all that was wrong with the world". Who is he talking about? His good buddies William Ayers and Bernadette Dohrn? He left out the part about bombing American institutions.

Of course he had to include "America's imperfections". Has he given a speech where he doesn't bring up our "imperfections?" He said we have an obligation to help our fellow citizens pursue their dreams. His choice of words is notable - rather than allowing our fellow citizens to pursue their dreams, he believes we must help them pursue their dreams.

As usual, he denigrated the Iraqis and bashed rich people. I agree with him on one point, that our government has put off much needed changes to our energy policy. He just seems to forget that it is his party keeping us from realizing energy independence.