Monday, September 15, 2008

We're Number One!!

I've been watching John McCain and Barack Obama on TV as they speak at the candidates forum on service. They both have been very articulate and heartfelt on this issue, and they probably don't really differ a hair's-breadth on this topic. But they both have made clear that America "is the greatest nation in the world."

Does this annoy you too? Why is it necessary to push out our chests and beat on it with our fists whenever we say the word 'America?' Every nation on this planet has its pros and cons, its strengths and weaknesses. Every citizen has some pride in and love for their country. But isn't it a matter of sheer arrogance to assert that 'we're the best'? It's probably okay when we're sticking up the old index finger and asserting that our college's basketball team is Number One. We don't really believe it, but it's fun to do and feels good. But there is too much at stake in the world in terms of conflict vs. cooperation to take on this attitude at the national level. Frankly, I'm for a little more humility. Isn't "I love my country" enough?

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