Yesterday, like so many others, I paused to spend time with how I felt and celebrated in my own way. I held space thinking about how we each celebrate differently. Some with fireworks, some with food and family, some with rest or reflection, and some by speaking up for what this country could still become.

For months I’ve carried this feeling I couldn’t quite name. I let it sit, quietly, while I found new ways to process the world, through writing, journaling, setting boundaries with relationships and the news, and listening to the stories of others, near and far.

Leading up to the fourth of July and what it should stand for, it hit me. The feeling is patriotism. But not the kind we’ve been force-fed. Not the kind twisted by hate or weaponized by fear. What I’m feeling is a deep love for what this country could be. A deep love for the people. An urge to stand even taller against all this negative energy. To become more active in helping things change.

There are a lot of terrible things happening across the country, but there are also a lot of good things taking shape. And, there is a shift taking hold that will reshape the way we move forward. History shows us changes always occur. The terrible things are going to continue and may get worse. But, with time there will be a rebirth of this country and each of us has an opportunity to play a role. Embrace wherever you are and lets nourish that quiet patriotic feeling that needs refreshed. Now is the time.

I’ve never considered myself patriotic, but maybe that’s changing. Maybe it’s not too late. It’s up to us, We the People, to redefine this feeling and this country.