What is a Patriot?

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I think that this quote from President Kennedy symbolizes what it means (to me) to be a patriot. Here is a comment that I recently left on the topic.

Patriotism is largely defined by sacrifice. Taxes in part can be a way that patriots sacrifice to help fellow citizens. Donating to charity can be another way.

Here are a few quotes about patriots and patriotism with my commentary.

There is much more to being a patriot and a citizen than reciting the pledge
or raising a flag. -Jesse Ventura

I am so tired of folks calling others patriots because of what they think rather than how they have served and sacrificed for our country.

A real patriot is the fellow who gets a parking ticket and rejoices that the system works. -Bill Vaughan

This is funny but somewhat embraces the idea that we are accountable to each other.

The patriot's blood is the seed of Freedom's tree. -Thomas Campbell

The voluntary sacrificial service of non-career soldiers epitomizes the concept of patriotism.

These are just a few thoughts to get a dialog started. How do you define patriot?

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