Re: America - not so much arrogant, just unlucky
You're completly right in everything you say.

I was particularly annoyed when I wrote that entry and it came out as a very one-sided rant.

One of my best friends is American, and I adore her, adn I know the vast majority of Americans themselves are not arrogant, swimming in money or Bible bashing, it's just those are the ones you hear from.

People *do* expect a lot from (North) America, because it is so large and wealthy. It's very much a double edged sword, because only a small amount hold that wealth and they don't seem willing to share, but that is the story of every country. With offering aid, I do understand. Everyone always condemns America for interveening and/or invading - Iraq obviously, Veitnam etc, but at the same time people do look to America first to provide aid, so it's one of those thankless roles. I do think things like oil do provide a huge insentive but also I think that the American people - the ordinary citizens who stood nothign to gain, do want to help, they want to liberate other countries, give them a taste of demoncracy.

Pride in your country is very rare now. I only ever see it in America. I certainly don't feel proud to be British. I'm not ashamed but it's just not an issue for me, I don't feel any alligence to a country, I would certainly not go to war or lay down my life for one. I'm sure that makes me selfish but it's simply who I am - I'm loyal to people not land.

THanks for your opinions - and sorry if any of my offended you! :)