Nationalism and America

I’ve become completely enamored with other countries’ (especially European states) Nationalistic pride.  I am also completely dismayed by many American’s brand of ignorant/elitist “nationalism.”  I am trying to develop my own sense of pride in the United States of America.  I’m struggling, to say the least.  I think I am proud of much of our nation’s past, but I am extremely disgruntled with the present (and the 50-odd years previous).  I’ve been reading up on Native American culture – trying to get a deeper sense of our “old” past.  I guess, through this, I’m attempting to conjure up a geographical Nationalism.  I enjoy the “mythical” histories that so many other countries possess. –such as William Blake’s stories of England (represented by his giant, Albion).

Basically, I need help.  I’m kinda stuck.