German Identity

[Evil_Maniac From Mars]

BBC

We are the first generation who thinks rationally about the National Socialism. The first generation in the 1950s denied everything, our parents accepted everything, accepted the guilt and the responsibility, but we are in the middle thinking about the consequences, but we aren't feeling guilty any more. Yeah, we're the first rationals.

The article also raises some interesting points about German patriotism, but the most interesting one is the basic question. Who are we? It is a difficult question, and many will have a different answer. But what does it really mean to be German? Not on an ethnic basis, or on the little piece of paper that tells me I am, but the deeper philosophical question. I've heard many answers. I admit that I have found one that is appealing to me - Wir Sind Wir. But is it wrong to see what we are and acknowledge the greatness in our past? After all, we have acknowledged the evil. I'd be very interested in the perspectives of non-Germans, which is why I posted this here.

Is it wrong to be proud?

EDIT: Not proud as in "my country is better than your country," but as in "my country is pretty good and I'm proud of being part of it."