I live in Iowa – the land of the perpetual campaign season. That means political issues are always hot topics.

I’ve had many conversations in the past few weeks with folks of varying political and ideological persuasions. Those conversations are always insightful, often spirited, and sometimes contentious.

But they always end with the same note – We live in an amazing country where people are not only allowed, but encouraged, to express their thoughts and opinions.

At the end of the day, friends are still friends, family is still family, and it is abundantly clear everyone involved deeply cares for our country and its future.

Patriotism doesn’t belong to the right or to the left, conservatives or liberals. It is neither the domain of the Republicans, nor the Democrats, nor the Independents.

No one religious faith holds the keys. No one economic class or ideology. No single gender, race, geographic region, or age demographic. It is neither urban, nor rural; singular, nor plural.

Patriotism doesn’t always wear a uniform. Sometimes, it doesn’t even carry a gun.

Sometimes it speaks softly. Sometimes it bellows. Sometimes it consists only of inward thoughts.

In the midst of the fray last week, this video was posted. It’s an old one, but still effective despite the costuming for a 1970 TV special. The diversity of players (especially poignant to those of us who remember back in the day) makes its point.

God Bless America indeed. It is my home, sweet home. And I will vow to defend and protect it – even from itself.

We are America. We are a land of diverse ideas and opinions. WE are the land that I love.