We hear reminders about "the true meaning" of Christmas—and we may even mutter a few guilt-ridden words to that effect ourselves—but each of us spends more time and thought in parties, gift-giving, and the other paraphernalia of a secularized holiday than we do deepening our devotion to the true meaning.

So it is with patriotism, especially on Memorial Day in May, Flag Day in June, and Independence Day in July. Walk down Main Street America and ask one citizen after another what patriotism means and with few exceptions, you'll get a passel of the most self-righteous but superficial and often dead-wrong answers. America's Founders, the men and women who gave us reason to be patriotic in the first place, would think we've lost our way if they could see us now.

Since the infamous attacks of September 11, 2001, Americans in near unanimity have been "feeling" patriotic. For most, that sadly suffices to make one a solid patriot. But if I'm right, it's time for Americans to take a refresher course.