I used to think patriotism was stupid...but having come to live in another country really gives you a sense of your national identity and what makes your country special. the culture you grew up in you'll always have a very special connection with which is almost impossible to extricate yourself from. I don't think it's bad to be patriotic, to appreciate the place you live. Britain really is one of the most beautiful and amazing countries in the world. the history: the castles, cathedrals, universities; the landscapes: the mountains, the lakes, the fields and hills; the culture: the contributions to cinema, theatre, television, art, music, comedy; the politics: secular, liberal, has a welfare state. I really think we have a lot to be grateful for.