There’s been a lot of talk recently about patriotism and what it means. Because July Fourth is the day America has set aside to honor the patriots who courageously founded this nation, it seems like a good time to look at what it takes to be a patriot.

Some people would say displaying the flag is a sign of patriotism, but does wearing a flag lapel pin ensure that someone is a patriot? Those who have served in the U.S. military, often risking their lives on behalf of the nation, have an almost undeniable claim to patriotism. But is it impossible for those who have not served in uniform to be just as committed to American ideals?

In considering such questions, it may be instructive to look back at our nation’s founders, whose actions clearly spoke louder than their words or superficial symbols. Some of them came to their support of American independence reluctantly, with lingering doubts in their minds. They didn’t wear flag lapel pins; a certain amount of secrecy was necessary. Because of the dangers they faced, it might have been unwise for them to trumpet their patriotism, but their commitment to the ideals of American democracy were so strong that they were willing to risk their lives, their families and their wealth for the cause.

The members of the Continental Congress argued about what the document that became the Declaration of Independence should say. They debated whether the time was right to pass such a declaration or if the group should try harder to reconcile with the British king. Theirs was not a blind allegiance to a cause, but a stand that was hotly debated and well considered.

The questions they raised and discussed about this new nation and what it should represent brought us the United States of America. The flag and other symbols were only accouterments to the true patriotism they exhibited while setting a course to which they could commit themselves and future generations.

It’s great to show love and respect for your country by flying the flag, but true patriotism involves much more. It is about matching your actions to your words, participating in your government, educating yourself about candidates and voting every chance you get.

It’s OK to ask questions and wonder sometimes whether America is headed in the right direction; the signers of the Declaration of Independence certainly did. But in the end they understood that the principles on which this nation was founded transcended those concerns and demanded our commitment and loyalty. That’s the true patriotism that is as important today as it was in 1776.