You know, I was just reflecting on something....

I don't claim to be the most wordly person in the world but I did have an
opportunity to live in Italy for a couple of years and do a bit of traveling
in Europe with my wife. I truely enjoy meeting and talking to people of
other cultures and philosophies. We also lived in Puerto Rico for 2 years
and I've been able to travel to Japan and Mainland China back in the mid
80's when China was just starting to open up to the rest of the world. I
participated in the traditional social activities and in potential business
relationships. In business, some of my closest friends were from Europe.

One thing that I've come to realize that is that we, as United States
citizens, are by far more vocal and opininated in terms of critisim of our
government, policies and elected officials on a regular basis than any other
country I've been exposed to. Yet, in many places, our system is still held
in high regard by others. I am not suggesting they want to change, because
part of the beauty of other countries in the world is the traditional
beliefs and values, but the US system of government works.

My conclusion? The US population is far more diverse, argumentitive and
opinionated in politics than most, if not all, of the rest of the world in
my limited view, yet we have had a very successful run to date.
Interesting .

RCE