Patriotism, simply defined, is devotion to one’s country. In some nations this devotion is expressed more passionately and openly than in others. But loyalty to one’s homeland is a natural and common emotion. Such patriotic feeling often lies quietly within the breast of a society and culture and may not have a highly visible expression until times of national tragedy or threat. For example, America’s patriotism sat lightly on the sleeves of a citizenry that had come to feel complacently secure within its borders, but it gained massive public display following the national threat perceived by 9/11.

A few social commentators are beginning to record what they observe to be a growing trend of anti-patriotism, especially in some of the major Western nations. One either has no conscious sense of national identity or, if one is given to lending the issue more attention, is ashamed of being American. The French reaction against the result of the recent presidential election there also indicates changing attitudes toward national political interests and social issues. Western society and culture is becoming less accepting of the constituted political processes that play a part in defining their respective countries.

This new trend raises some questions regarding the value and the future of patriotism. Is national devotion something that should be shared by all sectors of the population? To take it further, should those who claim allegiance to God be patriotic?

A patriot is one who loves his or her country and supports its authority and interests. This love naturally includes a large emotional element–feelings that are expressed inspired by love for one’s country. Patriotism has traditionally combined heartfelt passion with practical, hands-on contributions to national authority and interests.

Today’s informality bespeaks great changes in the national psyche. We could therefore be forgiven for concluding that patriotism has little bearing on today’s society and culture. It is becoming a nice sentiment rather than something of substance.

Patriotism of the past contained an element that is worthy of consideration. Love of country generally embraced God as the One who gave us our nation and all the benefits we enjoyed. But we have progressively separated God from country. Patriotism without love for God is more likely to be devoid of altruism, allowing self-love to overshadow responsibility and duty. Citizens who express reverence and respect toward God would also live by a code that guides social and domestic conduct. Were society and culture to follow Religion and the Bible patriotism would gain direction and substance.

The Bible is a book that outlines a way of life that is not controlled or formulated by interest groups, religious denominations or any other man-made factors. Jesus Christ did not teach against patriotism; rather, He gave it context and direction. He taught that His followers were to be subject to the authority of their country. That authority is to be respected and its laws obeyed so long as they do not conflict with His laws. Whatever is Caesar’s is to be paid to Caesar (Matthew 22:21).

If patriotism could be channeled first toward Religion and the Bible then the result would be greater love and respect for our physical country, and a more unified society and culture living more peacefully, and experiencing a more positive physical life.

Long distance plans may also vary by provider. Some may include free overseas plans with time restrictions. Be sure to ask which time zones apply to your plan. Other providers restrict which countries can be called with no additional charges being applied, additional country plans may be obtained for a low rate with certain packages.

VoIP service providers are required to provide 911 assistance of some type. The paramount problem with 911 VoIP service is that most providers still have yet not completely solved this issue. The name and address of a 911 VoIP emergency call is not immediately rendered by a dispatcher.

New technology in this area is presently being developed on a daily basis which will allow GPS and VoIP phone service to convey vital information needed to quickly process an 911 emergency call. It is important to survey your service provider and ask them where they stand on this issue, or if they have addressed the order given by the US FCC bureau for all VoIP providers to enhance their 911 emergency system.

Today’s fast moving telecommunications are eagerly surveying IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) which provides interconnectivity between current Internet technologies and the mobile world.

Many telecommunications companies are looking at the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) which merges Internet technologies with the mobile world, utilizing a pure VoIP infrastructure. IMS internal structure allows current VoIP systems to interface with traditional telephone service and mobile cell phones. An Internet broadband connection will still be needed to provide service.

The upstream and downstream bandwidth connection rate should be taken into consideration when reviewing a possible broadband supplier. When a VoIP service provider performs quality customer service along with offering value packed phone service plans that are easy to use for the end user will undoubtedly see their profits soar. In the telecommunications business, pricing and customer service are paramount in deciding the success of your business.

The types of VoIP service plans will vary from each provider. Most providers today offer service that allows the user to call anyone with a telephone number, whether it’s local, long distance, cell, or an overseas phone number.

Service providers usually will offer their clients three different ways to use a VoIP service. Phone systems will consist of either the customers computer to make their calls, a special VoIP phone issued by the provider, or telephone adapter that interfaces with the customer’s present phone system.

If you decide to consider a VoIP solution to replace or add to your traditional phone service, research all factors that are important to you. The telecommunication world is quickly improving everyday to benefit us all with our demands and needs.

In conclusion, be sure to ask all the providers that you survey if the system you select can be upgraded when new technologies and or advancements evolve. Most all the VoIP service providers will require you to sign a one year contract for their services provided.

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