We’ve all seen them- magnetic ribbons on cars, truck, minivans, and SUVs. The messages may differ, but they tend to be variations of the same them: “We Support Our Troops”. I often find myself wondering why anyone would need to spend $5.00 on a magnetic ribbon to demonstrate their support for our men and women in uniform? How could any reasonable American NOT support our troops? Even amongst Liberal opponents of Bush’s war of aggression in Iraq (such as myself), the problem is not with our troops, but with the leadership that is all too willing to place them in harm’s way for no compelling reason other than their political aggrandizement.
Think about it for a second. What does slapping a magnetic ribbon on the back of your vehicle really prove? And does the absence of one demonstrate a lack of patriotism and support for our troops? Don’t be ridiculous- or are you that vulnerable to the the not-so-subtle pressures of jingoistic Groupthink?
I’ve refused to place a magnetic ribbon on my truck as a statement of principle. First of all, the ribbons have become little more than meaningless fashion statements. Secondly, where do you think your $5.00 goes? Do you honestly think that it is going to any sort of program to assist our troops? If you do, you’re even more hopelessly out of touch than I had feared. Someone is making some serious bank off of this trend, and it has NOTHING to do with supporting our troops. It has everything to do with making a quick buck. Perhaps if it could be demonstrated that the money was being used to benefits causes that supports our men and women in uniform or the families they’ve left behind, I’d think about changing my tune. Sadly, this is just another instance of people capitalizing on a fad based on Groupthink and false patriotism. Isn’t it about time to WAKE UP AND SMELL THE CAT LITTER?
If you really want to support our troops, find a group that is dedicated to supporting their families. Volunteer at a VA hospital. Write a letter or send an email to a soldier. Collect food, DVDs, or books to send to our troops overseas. There are so many things that can be done that can actually make a difference. All slapping a magnetic ribbon on your car will do is to help you feel better about yourself: “Look at me; I’m a patriot. I support our troops.” No, in reality, you’re actually little more than a typically lazy, self-absorbed clueless American more concerned with conformity and empty gestures than with doing something that will actually make a difference.
Not that feeling good about yourself isn’t a good thing….
