I wrote the title as listed because I didn't have enough letters to say What If America Lost The Revolutionary War. I kept trimming it down until it fit. I started the thread in a light-hearted way, but I also appreciate the more serious side of the question. Looking more seriously, I try to see the reasons for celebrating the 4th of July here (and I see many) along with the daily self-flagelation that so many Americans engage in. Embarassment and shame for our governement's invasion of Iraq, treatment of prisoners, abuse of the environment and the economic injustice that has gotten worse during the Bush administration overshadows the appreciation of what is great about this country. I'm not talking "Great" in super-power terms, or technology. I'm talking about the spirit of most of the people I cross paths with... friends and strangers.

There was a very recent poll about how the English see America, and it is heavily tilted toward the Hollywood and media portrayal of this country. You'd think everyone was dealing drugs or being consumed with greed. I don't believe our current government reflects the heart of the American people, and I am encouraged that we live in a democarcy that despite all of it's very human failures provides a framework for righting the ship when a pirate takes the helm. And I believe that is happening. There are too many people of good will and generosity in this country to allow present day Carpet Baggers to destroy what so many gave their lives to create.

Jerry