I got into some trouble tonight. I sometimes do in social situations and its pretty rare for me to express anything that falls within the realms of belief or acceptance for the majority of people I cross paths with in everyday life.
My views aren’t popular. I suspect its because they are negative – although I try to ground myself in reality and offer a ray of hope.
So here’s the gist – I’m at a software conference. I’m sitting at a table of NY User’s and the subjects of America, the economy, and what we need to fear come up.
I made a frank statement. Before I tell you what I said, I need for you to know that I love my country as much as anyone. That isn’t the same thing as loving my government and it is definitely not the same thing as loving the points of view of the majority. I do love my country. I would die for my country but not my government. I love military people for the sacrifices they make – but I do not support the reasons why – and I’m brought to tears by the lies that have put them in harm’s way. I would not die for a Madison Avenue, packaged version of what America is supposed to be.
I said, “The problem with this country is we cling to a 50 year old mind set – USA number one, and if you don’t agree we’ll kick your ass…”
It landed with all the grace of a lead balloon.
I still believe it, and I’ll defend it. The USA is *not* number one – certainly not in standard of living. I have friends in other countries who live much better than I do. We are not number one in talent – the brightest students in our universities are not American. Our high school students fall behind other developed countries. China owns a frightening large amount of our debt. How on Earth can you possibly say USA number one?
We have more military bases in foriegn countries than anyone else. We’ve spent enought money on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to end world hunger for a generation. We have a nuclear and military superiority. Brute force, perhaps. USA number one.
I’d rather live in a country that is admired for its talent, its culture, and its humanity. I’d rather not live in one that is hated and feared. Anyone who thinks the US is not hated and feared – almost universally in the rest of world, is in denial and out of touch.
That’s about all I have to say.

























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