Enforcing patriotism....

Having just seen this programe on NDTV...I was pondering myself as what does patriotism actually means to each one of us.Some people argue that singing of Vande Mataram should be made compulsory commemorating the centenary celebrations.But does making something compulsory or forcefully enforcing it on someone awakens the patriotic spirit in them.Okay for me as an individual there is always this impalpable feeling which is generated and makes my eyes moist when a patriotic song is sung..but that would definitely be if i could comprehend the meaning behind what i am actually saying or infact singing.And being frank on this note,I actually started enjoying the song after the video was shot on A.R Rehman..and no doubt music definitely has its say in leaving an indelible impression....And coming back to the point,patriotism should definitely be instilled not enforced in the little minds..and for a kid of first standard..let the song be a ameliorating factor in developing his patriotic spirit and let him truly understand the meaning behind what he is actually saying,but not something which is attached with religion and dampen the true spirit and cause for what it has been written...And let people decide for themselves ...