I am patriotic. I am lucky and happy to have found myself by accident of birth living in a beautiful and wealthy country.
I stand for the national anthem, but more importantly, I endeavour to always follow the laws of the country. I get a little frisson when I hear patriotic music, but not when they are used as sport themes.
I don't think that my country's history is spotless, and I don't think that it's current actions are worthy or good for long term conditions at home or abroad. I always vote, so whatever happens, I know that I didn't do nothing to change things.
I believe that I have more to give my country alive than dead, particularly at times like this when the threat to our cherished freedom comes from the heart of government.
Everyone in the UK has some Irish blood, mine is well diluted, but this sums it up:
"Irish blood, English heart, This I'm made of
There is no one on earth I'm afraid of
And no regime can buy or sell me
I've been dreaming of a time when
To be English is not to be baneful
To be standing by the flag not feeling shameful, Racist or partial
Irish blood, English heart, This I'm made of
There is no one on earth I'm afraid of
And I will die with both of my hands untied
I've been dreaming of a time when
The English are sick to death of Labour, And Tories
And spit upon the name Oliver Cromwell
And denounce this royal line that still salute him,
And will salute him forever."