On the generosity of the American spirit.

[msallied]

The world at large has never been terribly kind in its view of Americans. To many, we're lazy, we're fat, we're selfish. This is often reinforced by the fact that America has never really had much of a social safety net. We don't have universal health care. Our pursuits are often viewed as greedy and reckless. Our culture is one that focuses on the potential of the individual rather than the collective whole. Depending on your outlook on life, this can be viewed as good or bad. Personally, I think it's a little bit of both.

But one thing that the naysayers of America will never be able to put over about Americans, even with our often superficial interests, is that we are anything but generous. In times of crisis, I have never seen such a coming together of hearts, minds, and money. Studies by numerous institutes have found that Americans, dollar for dollar, are much more generous with their own money to charity than almost any other nation in the world, and I am so incredibly proud of that. While our government has failed on numerous occasions, particularly in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, it has always been the regular, ordinary Americans (who are often not wealthy themselves but give anyway) who have come forth to donate their time and money to causes that cry out for help.

I've seen it time and time again here, on this board. I don't know any of you personally, but I'd be willing to bet that not many of us are of astronomical means and are probably the direct opposite of that. And yet, you give. You have given your time and your money to your candidates, to your causes, and most recently to ailing Senator Kennedy.

I think that Americans do these charitable acts, not in spite of our individualistic culture, but often because of it. Although we have our own struggles, we are aware that there are so many who need more than we do, and we respond accordingly, often out of the goodness inside us all. And this seems to transcend politics.

I guess if I've been forced to reflect on anything about this horrible news about Ted Kennedy, it's the outpouring of support and well-wishes across party lines. While I'm sad over the tragedy that has united us, I am heartened by the goodness it brings out in all of us. No matter how discouraged I get sometimes, when it comes down to the brass tacks of it, America is still worth fighting for.

[Phillycat]

1. Actually, part of your premise is incorrect.

I had this misconception that the rest of the world thinks little of America too, until I met my British husband (who's lived all over Europe.) He told me that, yes, Europeans in particular do make fun of the "ugly American" tourist, but America, now that's another story. He told me that the rest of the world want America to succeed, because they want America to lead. To lead in issues like poverty, hunger, and the environment. He said the reason the rest of the world hates Bush so much is that he is preventing us from leading, just when they need us most.

But I do agree that many Americans are generous of spirit.

[msallied]

3. That is heartening to read.

I hear conflicting reports from people abroad, but it is always good to know that they don't always think America is bad.

[AllentownJake]

4. Well regardless of who the nominee is

The world will be alot happier with a democratic President.

[msallied]

5. I think when I see George and Laura board that chopper to leave the White House for good

I will probably get my atheist ass down on my knees and thank Jesus.

[FlaGranny]

2. Thank you.

Yes, you are right of course.