Notes about patriotism

Some persons have accused me of being too critical towards Georgia these days, arguing that they are real patriots and are not going to criticise recent political developments. But what is patriotism? Look at my picture, it is taken in my parents' apartment. Although I am very critical about the actions taken by Georgian government, I still have Georgian flag in "my corner". I do like this land, but maybe I dislike this government... Real patriotism means that you are not blind as regards actions of your government, having (a bit) critical approach. You are criticising, because you want all the best for your country. First, you are trying to be silent in your critics, pointing out to the mistakes. If you are not heard and the overall situation is getting worse, you loudly voice your view. Maybe the same has happened with me... I do like a remark of Mr. Aleksey Loskutov, the head of Latvian Anti-corruption bureau: Patriotism means that when you pay a fine, because you have parked your car in a wrong place, you are happy to know that the system works....