I've always thought America the Beautiful would be a better choice for a national anthem, although I suppose I have to admit that "Star-Spangled Banner" works pretty well for sporting events and military things, if those things are one's preference (they ain't mine).

There certainly is great natural beauty in the U.S. - I don't think the staunchest anti-American would argue against that. And I suppose it's also true that Americans have done much to spoil the beauty of their country and deplete its resources. There is also an idealism in the national spirit that is quite remarkable. I'm afraid that idealism can lead to an arrogance that makes us very inept at international relations.

We Americans have many things to be proud of, and many things to be ashamed of. We're an interesting mix of good and bad, just like every other country. If you want to blast Americans, you've come to the wrong place. Most American Mudcatters have a rather realistic view of their country, and are quite aware of both the good and the bad aspects of the U.S.

-Joe Offer-