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September 10, 2005

Impressions on America

There has been quite a lot of negativity in the news about America lately, both at home and abroad. As the pundits like to point out, the world is watching us. Although some would suggest the image we project is not what it could be (I would have to agree), there is also a positive side to the attention we get from foreigners. There is much we take for granted here, especially when our focus is on the negative as it has been of late.
It is often interesting to hear foreigners' impressions of America. Here are some that we often forget:
We often take for granted how well off even the poorest among us are. Foreigners are quick to point this out.
Many are amazed at the silence here. Those of us who live in the suburbs rarely take the time to enjoy the solitude (in fact, we often complain about noise), but from the foreigner's perspective, we are blessed with amazing quiet.
Although we suffer some of the poorest air quality in the country here on Cape Cod, tourists from industrialized nations are in awe of our skyward views at night and the cleanliness of our beaches.
Our supermarkets are truly something for the foreign observer to behold. The supermarket offers everything under the sun - a luxury not available in many countries.
And what of the comforts that we so often take for granted? Even the very least of us can walk up to a faucet and have water flowing out (and that water is often drinkable!).
We don't often stop to consider our ability to, at the flick of a switch, have light.
Many of us have the ability to sit down at a screen or pick up a telephone to communicate, pick up a remote to switch channels or we may change the room temperature at will.
The list is endless, but easily forgotten. The complexities of some that we enjoy cause some among us to rue simpler times, but we must admit that most of us enjoy the fruits that the American way of life affords us. The daily grind may seem unkind and monotonous at times, but we are blessed to be in a country that gives us such opportunity and comfort. How easy it is to forget.
This week, try getting away from it all to explore these freedoms we so often take for granted: family and love, a walk in the woods, pedal the bike down a quiet street, quietly read a book outside, photograph a scene, mow the lawn, weed the garden, chop wood, play with the dog or the cats, or breathe in the sea air. Try to savor each moment. We are so lucky.

Posted by capecodcyclist at September 10, 2005 07:35 AM

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