Reader Struggles To Be Patriotic
DEAR HARRIETTE: It's the 250th anniversary of our country, and I am so torn. In my lifetime, I have not felt more disconnected from my patriotism. I love my country -- don't get me wrong -- but I feel like we are terribly divided. The rift between the haves and have-nots is growing, and there seems to be a growing trend to annihilate people of color. How can I be proud to be an American when who I am keeps being challenged by people, even though I was born here just like them? -- Want To Be Patriotic
DEAR WANT TO BE PATRIOTIC: Our country was founded on solid principles that also faced compromise. You may know that some of our Founding Fathers owned slaves. That means the notion that "all men are created equal" was a philosophy, but one only put in practice for some. I mention this not to upset you, but to point out that philosophy and practice have always been at war with each other.
So, what can you do today? Engage in meaningful dialogue with people about what you consider patriotism to be. Talk about the values on which this country was founded, those that you admire and those that could stand a bit of polishing. Put yourself in situations where people are willing to talk respectfully and address their differences. To make ours a "more perfect union" requires the people to stand up, speak up and be willing to fight for justice for all.
You can choose how you will do that, but do something. That could mean talking to people who don't share your ideological beliefs to see if you can come to an understanding of each other. It could mean you should enter local politics. Or write about your thoughts in the local newspaper. Educate your family on our country's history, both good and challenging. Just don't put your head in the sand. Your brain and brilliance are important.
DEAR HARRIETTE: Am I being a brat for wanting to sell my car? I'm a college student in a major city, and I don't need a car to get around. I live right by trains and bus stops and get around either on foot or via public transportation. I have a car back home and would like to sell it for extra cash, but my family says I have no right to do that since it was a gift. Since I've been away, it's just been sitting there, and I feel like it would be more beneficial for me to sell it. What's your opinion? Do you think I'm being selfish for wanting to sell my car? -- Selfish Student
DEAR SELFISH STUDENT: This is tricky. On one hand, it is your car. If the title is in your name, that means you can do whatever you want with it. On the other hand, later in life you may want to use the car. Your family could be looking ahead. That said, if no one uses it at all, it probably will not be functional the next time you try to use it. Cars need to be driven and maintained.
Regarding its being a gift, tread lightly. If you are willing to cause a family rift for a few dollars, sell. If you think it will cause long-term hurt feelings, evaluate if the dollars you pocket will be worth the grief.
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(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
Copyright 2026, Harriette Cole
COPYRIGHT 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication. This feature may not be reproduced or distributed electronically, in print or otherwise without the written permission of Andrews McMeel Syndication.
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