Patriotism

Patriotism is more than flag-waving and fireworks. It is how we respond to public issues. If we ask only, "What's in this proposal for me?-What do I get out of it?"- we are not patriotic and we are not good citizens. But if we ask, "Is this right?-Is it good for the American people?-Would it preserve and strengthen our freedom?"-then we deserve to stand in the company of Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln. Patriotism is trying always to give more to the Nation than we receive. It is selfless service. -Ezra Taft Benson, 1962, "The Red Carpet", p. 96.

The Lord Almighty requires this people to observe the laws of the land, to be subject to the powers that be, so far as they abide by the fundamental principles of good government, but He will hold them responsible if they will pass unconstitutional measures and frame unjust and proscriptive laws. If lawmakers have a mind to violate their oath, break their covenants and their faith with the people, and depart from the provisions of the Constitution, where is the law, human or divine, which binds me, as an individual, to outwardly and openly proclaim my acceptance of their acts? -Joseph F. Smith, 1882