Vernon County censor. [volume] (Viroqua, Wis.) 1865-1955, 1898-07-06
THE SPIRIT OF PATRIOTISM.

Never in the history of our govern
ment has the true spirit of patriotism
manifested itself more than during the
past three months. The nation stands
united on this glorious Fourth of July
season on all questions and policies
affecting the people. A foreign foe, in
attempting to crush weak power by
barbarism and torture, finds a solid
falsnx in the United States to resent
the imposition.
While rejoicing over our national
unity, power and progress, we should
not lose sight of the invisible but potent
forces that have contributed to the de-
velopment and establishment of our
national character. Republicanism, the
Modest form of earthly government, de-
mands The existence and exertion of the
highest mental and moral faculties of
man.
Autocracy may flourish with nation
sunk in ignorance and slavery; mon
archy seIvilely surrenders the destinies
Of an empire to the dominion If des-
potic few; but republicanism is the vox
populi and only acts when every citizen
has spoken. AS fear is the controlling
principle of despotism, and popular sub
mission 10 the basis of monarchy, SO
intelligerc e, courage and independence
constitute the handspring and life blood
of a republic.
As bond OF union, there is an ele
ment more substantial THAI even the
wisdom OF our constitution, than the
interlocked geographical unity of our
TERRITORY, or the combined power of our
army and navy. 1t is the spirit OF
patriotism. Patriotism is the love of
country. 1t is privilege to be capable
of such sentiment. 1t is one of the
purest emotions known to the human
heart. 1t ennobles by it's presence and
elevates by it's influences al. by whom it
is cherished and cultivated.
Self-love is the freezing point IN the
moral, social and political temperature
OF the world. Mans tirstinterest should
be in his family and kindred, then in his
country, and finally in humanity. The
obligation of particular relationships
ard the claim of universal sympathy are
perfectly compatible and mutually full
fl the highest uses. The man who
loses his affection for kindred and coun-
try in the larger love of the world and
humanity, becomes necessarily the vic
tim of mental vagueness through the
very magnitude of the area of his in
terest.
He who has no special regard for any
flag, no particular affection for any one
country, loves no country or fisg as be
should, and is destitute of the true spirit
of patriotism. Those who claim that
patriotism is only sort Of sc ctionalism
of the heart, the giving to g few that
which is intended for the many, are
teaching an unwholesome and dangerous
sentiment. No right minded and true-
hearted man can be indifferent to the
history, honor, institutions and achieve
ments of his country.
Its natural and proper that our hearts
should thrill with tender memories and
emotions at the sight c. the home that
sheltered our infancy and kindle with
enthusiasm and pride as we behold the
symbol of our nationality. The surest
and swiftest way to paralyzs our govern
ment would be by whitening that ami
mating spirit Of patriotism that, like an
invisible element, interpenetrates the
land.
Onr real wealth OF affection and devo-
ton must ever be lavished upon kindred
and county. 1t is true that our sym
pathy and pity will not be confined
within these limits, but will go forth
wherever there 10 human need and sor-
row.