A note to friends...
If nothing else, I hope that we can all unite and put aside differences to tackle some of our problems again with a united front!
In today's global world, the days of isolationism are unfortunately over. Sure, we do need to find ways to maintain our jobs, identity, power, etc. However,
we are part of a larger community. The way the world views America is very important. Afterall, the USSR and the wall dividing Berlin were not torn down by military might. They crumbled because of Levi's, and Coca-Cola, and the opportunity for everyone to share in our prosperity. We are so influencial that the world economic climate is affected by the mere mood of the American public. With such influence comes responsibility.
In the recent past, we have not acted as part of the global family and this hurt us in the view of the world. The world view of America (and our economy) was so soured that there was even a call for oil to be traded in Euros instead of dollars. It is important psychologically that oil be traded in dollars. These small things represent our total influence.
The "brand" of America is just as important in helping us accomplish our goals as anything. It is easier to conquer the minds of people with the thought of democracy and prosperity than to attack them. A strong military is important, and this will always be the case, but smiling and giving and whispering with a big stick in hand accomplishes more than whacking people upside the head. Especially if it costs us our economy and tarnishes our brand.
A brand that represents the opportunity of a better life.
This country gives by far more aid throughout the entire world than anyone else, yet we never seem to get credit for it anymore. Granted, our mere superpower status puts us on a level where other countries may resent us. But, when we act as we have in the recent past, this makes everything even worse. Regardless of how anyone voted,
the positivity and thoughts of hope that have swept across the nation recently can only benefit us all.As the economy continues to sputter and times stay tough ahead, an inspirational leader can only help. Sometimes we need to be told it's okay, even when it's not. Sometimes thinking everything is okay helps it to become so.
Below is a great article about the perception of this election globally. It's a reminder that we should foster community rather than carve a solo path. When the citizens of other countries look up to America they are less likely to attack us, more likely to side with us and their most creative and brilliant citizens might move here to allow us to continually grow.
May the hope continue...
Besides, if none of this works, we can always launch a few nukes to let people know we haven't gone soft!
*****
Suddenly, it may be cool to be an American again
