Well, I'm probably going to get flamed for this, but please believe that I am expressing a sincere sentiment.

I've often felt sorry for American children, who are force-fed patriotism in their schools, before they are old enough to understand the concept. Children as young as 6 are taught, and required to recite, the Pledge of Allegiance, which cannot possibly mean anything to them at that age. Thus they are not allowed to develop a sense of love or loyalty to their country -- they learn it by rote.

American patriotism is then reinforced by just such performances as the one as the Jays game -- the SSB is played at virtually all performances of any kind; America the Beautiful is not only played at many events, but is often recorded by performers (Ray Charles' version is awesome); God Bless America, since 9/11 has been heard virtually everywhere.

What kind of patriotism is it when it is taught, then reinforced at every opportunity? What kind of patriotism is it that calls a country "best" instead of "good" or "great"? What kind of patriotism leads people to deny any flaws in their country or government?