Can you feel patriotic for a country that is not yours? Can you honor the nation whose passport you do not carry? Can you celebrate America without belonging to it? Yes, you absolutely can.
This is a story of my borrowed patriotism: an earnest and respectful pride for a land that is not mine. It is a tribute to freedom beyond borders.
4th of July in Boston
The 4th of July, Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when the thirteen colonies declared themselves free and independent states.
This year, on the 4th of July, I had the chance to be in Boston and experience the traditional celebrations. They included a reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House, processions, and passionate speeches. Boston had a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Many of the key events leading to independence took place in and around the city, which became a center of resistance to British rule. The Declaration of Independence signified the birth of the United States of America. Over time, its ideas went on to inspire revolutions and democratic movements worldwide.
The Feeling of Freedom
I was eager to attend the Fourth of July celebrations in person and witness the pride of a nation in its freedom. What struck me most was how powerful and unifying the moment felt. It was not because of grand political speeches, but because of the simple, fundamental truths spoken in strong, decisive voices. There was no need for high political rhetoric. It was the simplest, basic things that created the sense of patriotism. Meanwhile, red, white, and blue were everywhere. The sound of the Declaration of Independence being read aloud and the shared sense of purpose in the crowd touched me deeply.
It was neither my country nor my flag, yet I felt a deep sense of patriotism and solidarity. It felt as though I was not standing for a particular nation, but for freedom itself, a fundamental human right, a principle that knows no borders. Above all, the spirit of liberty I felt throughout the celebration reminded me why freedom matters. It is the freedom to act, speak, and make our own choices.
The Meaning of Freedom
When I was born in Lithuania at a time when the country was not free. I know what it means to live without the freedom to speak openly and express your own ideas. I know what it means to be denied the right to seek the truth and to live in constant fear.
Even as a child, I felt the silence imposed by Soviet censorship and the pressure to believe in one party, one leader, one vision. Freedom is not an abstract idea to me. For that reason, it is precious.
Borrowed Patriotism
On the day of American Independence, I held the American flag and felt a profound sense of pride, not just in a nation, but in the idea of freedom. This value transcends borders and belongs to all of humanity. It may have looked like borrowed patriotism for the United States, but what I felt was genuine patriotism for freedom itself.