Patriotism

 

Patriotism

I think my country needs my vote,

 I know it doesn't need my throat, 

My lungs and larynx, too;

 And so I sit at home at night 

And teach my children what is right 

And wise for them to do; And when I'm on the job by day

 

 I do my best to earn my pay.

Though arguments may rage and roar;

 I grease the hinges on my door 

And paint the porches blue; 

I love this splendid land of ours, 

And so I plant the seeds and flowers

 And watch them bursting through. 

I never stand upon a box 

To say we're headed for the rocks.

My notion of a patriot 

Is one who guards his little cot,

 And keeps it up to date; 

Who pays his taxes when they're due, 

And pays his bills for groc'ries, too,

 And dresses well his mate; 

He keeps his children warmly clad

 And lets them know they have a dad.

The nation's safe as long as men

 Get to their work and back again 

Each day with cheerful smile;

 So long as there are fathers 

who Rejoice in what they have to do

 And find their homes worth while,

 The Stars and Stripes will wave on high 

And liberty will never die.  --Edgar Guest