I don't like the showy nationalism - a tattoo, wrapping yourself

The words of Gary Speed—“I don’t like the showy nationalism—a tattoo, wrapping yourself in a flag—that doesn’t matter to me. The way to show your patriotism and commitment is to go and support or play for your team.”—carry the clarity of a man who understood that true devotion is measured in deeds, not in displays. He calls us away from the hollow glitter of showy nationalism and directs us instead toward the quiet, steadfast actions that reveal genuine patriotism. In his words we hear an ancient truth: loyalty is not proven by symbols painted on the skin or banners draped over the body, but by the discipline, service, and sacrifice that strengthen the community.

At the heart of Speed’s teaching is a rejection of empty spectacle. Nationalism, when paraded as tattoos, slogans, or clothing, is easy and requires little of the soul. But to support your team—to give your time, energy, and presence, or even to step onto the field and play—that is costly, real, and meaningful. He reminds us that commitment is not about appearances; it is about what we do when the cheering fades, when effort is required, when struggle is at hand. Symbols may inspire, but actions sustain.

This lesson can be found throughout history. Recall the Spartans at Thermopylae, who did not prove their loyalty to their homeland by carrying more flags or boasting more loudly than others, but by standing their ground against overwhelming odds, giving their lives in service of Greece. Their patriotism was not written on their bodies but carved into their deeds. They showed that the truest love of one’s nation is not in decoration but in sacrifice.

So too in modern times, Gary Speed himself embodied this principle. As both player and manager, he was known not for theatrics, but for tireless work, leadership, and quiet commitment. His influence on Welsh football came not through speeches about flags or tattoos of pride, but through shaping a culture of professionalism, unity, and belief. By serving, by building, by dedicating himself wholly to his team, he left behind a legacy that continues to inspire long after his passing.

The wisdom here is this: patriotism must be lived, not flaunted. A nation, a community, or a team does not grow stronger because its people wave flags more vigorously, but because they show up, support one another, and give their best in the arena of life. Empty gestures may dazzle for a moment, but it is devotion in action that endures for generations.

For us, the lesson is both humble and heroic: prove your love not with noise, but with service. Support those who strive. Work for the good of your community. Dedicate yourself to the common cause, whether in sport, in labor, or in life. If you love your people, show it by being present, by standing with them in hardship, by celebrating with them in triumph, and by contributing with your whole heart.

In daily practice, this may mean cheering for your team in earnest rather than boasting on social media, volunteering in your community instead of only speaking of pride, or working diligently in your profession to bring honor to your land. These are the quiet but mighty acts that reveal genuine patriotism. They are not glamorous, but they build the foundation upon which nations and teams endure.

Thus let Speed’s words echo as a reminder and a challenge: showy nationalism is fleeting, but true commitment is eternal. Let us not drape ourselves in symbols while neglecting deeds. Instead, let us go, support, play, and serve. For in action lies the true measure of devotion, and in devotion lies the glory that endures.