>>John, I agree with you except I wouldn't use superlative words like "the best". That immediately leaves no room for maneuver on the other side.
>>
>>And we are not the best. Not by far. We are *better* than a lot of other nations in some areas but not always. Are we the best we could be? No way, man.
>>
>>Either you'll get what I am going to say or you'll think I'm loopy. But here goes:
>>
>>When we get over the whole color issue and send bright kids to college on financial issues alone, we'll be better.
>>
>>When I can hear what a great coach Tony Dungy is without having to hear that he's the 1st African-American as if it's a novelty to win the Super Bowl, we'll be better.
>>
>>When I don't hear anyone for any reason ever use the N-word...we'll be better.
>>
>>When criminals fear breaking into homes because the residents are ready for 'em, it'll be better.
>>
>>Man, I could go on forever.
>>
>
>I didn't say we had no room for improvement. Best means we sit at the top of the totem pole. In most categories that matter, we are there. I make my statement based on the impact we have on the rest of the world. What other country can lay claim ? We are the ONLY superpower left, not that that is necessarily an indication of "best", but possibly "strongest". I stand by my statement, this is the greatest country, best country, or however you want to state it. All the while, I agree with what you are saying ,but remember I never said we were or are perfect. We are certainly not, and it appears to me we are rapidly devolving into a lesser power.
>
>Each generation seems to seek a new low. These kids today make you wonder about the future of our country.

"Best" country for what?

- Most powerful - yes (until China overtakes you)
- Richest - I think so
- Highest standard of living - No
- Best quality of life = No
- Lowest infant mortality rate - No
- Longest life expectancy - No
- Best medical care - Yes - for those who can afford it.
- Best food - No
- Least crime? - No
- Happiest people - no-one's qualified to answer that.

Get the picture? How do you define "best"?

I'm not a yank-basher but I'll take on one who goes spouting his mouth off. I have spoken up for the USA against this constant sniping from the Netherlands but now you're sounding like just as the anti-American world sees the big-mouthed yank. Your country's got a hell of a lot going for it, and the people I've always found to be cheerful, fun-loving, generous, hospitable. But "The Best Country"?