Thoughts About Our Standing In the World (On This July 4th Weekend)
by DemFromCT
Sun Jul 4th, 2004 at 07:53:03 EDT
Birthdays are often a time for reflection as well as celebration. As proud as we are of this country, there's a case to be made for attempting to see us as others see us, warts and all. And one of the disturbing items is how our friends and allies have come to see us and act towards us these days (and with it and because of it, how we see them).
The question across the Old Continent is not the oft-asked, "Why do they hate us?" In fact, not that many Europeans do. More thoughtful Americans ask, "Why have they lost respect for us?"
Iraq is the obvious short answer. In polls and conversations, a clear majority of Europeans excoriate President Bush for charging on alone into a widening quagmire that is reshaping the world around them.
Fortunately, America has a choice coming and there is an alternative to present to the world and to ourselves. It'll take voting a President out of office, an event many Americans are loath to do. But to everything, there is a season.
Celebrate America's birthday today. Think about what's gone right. Americans love their country, and with good reason. Relax and enjoy family and friends. And when the holiday's over, roll up your sleeves; we've still got work to do to keep America proud.
Swiped the whole thing, links 'n all. I don't have anything to add.
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