Are you patriotic? What does being patriotic mean to you?
Okay, folks, let’s talk patriotism. It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot, often with images of flags waving, anthems blaring, and maybe a majestic lion roaring in the distance. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly, am I patriotic?
Well, let’s see. Do I tear up when I hear the Kenyan national anthem? Sometimes, if it’s sung really beautifully! Do I know all the words? Let’s just say I enthusiastically hum along to the bits I don’t know. But do I get an inexplicable surge of pride when our athletes win a marathon? Absolutely! Like, I’m practically sprinting alongside them in my living room.
So, maybe I’m not the constantly flag-waving, word-perfect anthem-singing type. But I do have a deep appreciation for Kenya. And not just in the abstract, “bless this our land and nation” kind of way. I appreciate the little things, too. Like the way the sun rises over the savanna, painting the sky in vibrant colours. Or the smell of freshly brewed Kenyan coffee in the morning. Or the sound of children laughing as they play.
These things, these small, everyday moments, they make me feel connected to Kenya. They make me feel like I belong here. And maybe that’s what patriotism is all about. It’s not about blind loyalty or unwavering support. It’s about appreciating the good things, acknowledging the bad, and working to make things better.
It’s also about the snacks. Let’s be real, Kenya has some seriously delicious snacks. I mean, have you ever had a mandazi so perfectly browned and it goes perfectly with a hot cup of tea? Or a samosa so crispy and flavourful it makes you want to cry tears of joy? Or a kachumbari so fresh and zingy it wakes up your taste buds?
Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a little. But the point is, I love Kenya. I love its landscapes, its people, and yes, even its snacks. And maybe that’s enough. Maybe that’s what being patriotic means to me.
So, are you patriotic? What does it mean to you? Let me know in the comments below! And if you’re looking for a delicious snack to celebrate your Kenyan patriotism, I highly recommend a mandazi and a cup of chai. Just sayin’.
