Monday, January 18, 2010

An Ex-Pat's View of America

It's my last day in Florida. After days of sub-zero Fahrenheit temperatures, the weather finally warmed up, and Florida feels at last like Florida. Mind you, I've been gone for so many years that I wonder if I know what Florida is supposed to feel like. Or any State in the Union, for that matter.

What got me thinking about this was a question posed by one of the resident's of Freedom Plaza, a retirement center for Seniors. This woman - and I suspect that she's near 90, and endowed with a wisdom beyond even her years and an energy and sensitivity that seems much younger - asked me: "Tom, you keep writing about how you find Ireland. Let me ask you: How do you find the United States? What changes do you see? What impresses you? What disappoints?"

Tocqueville, the 19th Century French political thinker and historian, was able to encapsulate his views of America in his treatise, Democracy in America. I am no Tocqueville, but the woman's question intrigued me. Therefore, and for what it's worth, some views from an ex-pat who hasn't lived in this country for 27 years, going on 28:
  • The price of gasoline is higher than it used to be - and folks over here bitch about it. They should be thankful that they're not paying over 5 bucks a gallon. That's what I pay in Ireland for the stuff.
  • Americans are out of work and they like to blame a lot of people - while it's true that many American companies have given away a whole slew of jobs by 'out-sourcing' skills to India, Malaysia, and similar (which makes me fume, by the way), I grow tired of the blame game. Yes, it's horrible when people lose their jobs (I've lost everything more than once). And it's also true that the greed of bankers, consumers, business people, congressional leaders, and regulators are to blame. But at this point - who cares? If someone is out of a job then go get one. If they can't get one, then start a business. I've been out of a job a couple of times. No one offered me much - just an opportunity. And I grabbed that with both hands, started a business, and began writing. I stopped blaming and started doing. I wish that people would stop bitching and do something constructive.
  • America is not falling apart - this is one of my pet peeves: folks I know in both the United States and Europe, citing Rome as an example, seem to take pleasure in stating that the sun is setting on the "American Empire". To that I can only say: "BS". Americans are some of the most industrious in the world. They are innovators, doers (contrary to my point above), reachers of Moon Dust. While it may be true that the United States will no longer be the strongest economic power in the world (China will possibly pass us very soon), the country and its people will be able to hold its head high.
  • Americans are extraordinarily giving - and not only with their money. With the smile of welcome that is on their lips as they greet a stranger; with the generosity of living that is in their hearts; with a recognition of how kindly fortune has smiled on them, and a willingness to give back. That is the America that I know. A kind hearted people firmly rooted to the soil of a great nation, who always seem to extend a giving hand when adversity strikes. That's always been the case. It was when I left and it still is.
  • America has problems, but it will prevail - it is true that this country has its share of problems: a hurting economy; an enormous pile of debt; a racial question that even now does not seem to be completely resolved; high levels of crime; falling disposable income. The list goes on and on. When I left here in 1982, that list of problems was almost exactly the same. While nothing would seem to be solved, so much has also been accomplished. Yet so much remains to be done. I am concerned when I see educational funding fall, knowing that this undermines the country's most important resource: an educated citizenry. I grow desperate when I still see high levels of bigotry: against African Americans, homosexuals, Islam, and anyone else who doesn't quite fit into the 'accepted mould.' I become greatly concerned when I see our values eroded: when this country would even consider taking the word "God" out of the Pledge of Allegiance, I can only wonder what this country has become...
Ask me what I think of this country and I'll tell you: it's not perfect. It still has a long way to go. But its geographic beauty is stunning. Its people rich in intellect, determination, and benefiting from an unique melting pot of cultures.

In the past 27 years, this country has changed. Of course it has. Some changes have been for the better. Some have been for the worse. But my attitude to the United States hasn't changed:

This ex-pat still believes that it's the best country in the world.

6 comments:

  1. Hi Tom,

    I agree, the U.S. is still pretty great...and as a very recent expat, I must say the blame game was getting REALLY old....but I'm sure eventually everyone will stop pointing fingers and bitching and pull themselves together. Everything takes time....something I'm learning all too well in my first month in Northern Ireland.

    HOLY CRAP! First of all....renting a house up here has been near impossible (well, one you would want to live in and pay for anyway) We were completely screwed with by a few letting agents who waited until there were various other applicants with deposits down to make a decision about WHO would get the place! We haven't been choosen yet...so we are still living in my brother-in-laws spare bedroom with our clothes and luggage in the other spare room. AWFUL thus far. I am getting bitter....but still not ready to give up of course...it's just the longer we wait for our own place, the more our precious savings dwindles as we are still paying bills in the states (student loans). UUUGH! I am pretty sure you said something about things taking FOREVER....and they sure do. It's scandalous the way they run their businesses too! AHHH! zero customer service...

    It's not all bad though. We went for a walk on the beach the other day...and suddenly it all seems worth it. It's beautiful here. sigh*

    I hope all is well with you....just thought I would update you!

    Best,
    Diana

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  2. Your words of optimism is very encouraing, lets hope US will come out of all troubles and one day it will shine again like another sun. Sharing my prayers with you..Great Expat view..

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  3. Dear Tom, I would like to get your opinon about this post, END OF THE WORLD IN 2012, http://fengshuischool.blogspot.com/2010/01/10-reasons-why-world-end-in-2012.html

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  4. So many thanks for all of your comments. Diana, I COMPLETELY understand (and identify with) your comments. While Ireland (north and south) can be terrific, some processes are as frustrating as the devil. If you ever decide to buy a house here, ensure that you have a full supply of Prozac.

    Re: the above article and other people's comments: Yes, I remain entirely optimistic about the prospects for our country. The America that I knew 27 years ago is as glorious as ever. Maybe a little worn, but all that's required is a bright polish.

    My best - T

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  5. Americans are extraordinarily giving - and not only with their money.
    This is so true! While I disagree with many political decisions taken in the States, I always look back on my time there with a big smile. I made great friends and often argue with people overseas who can't see past the politics. Let's be hopeful!

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