Sorry, bill, I was a bit cranky. It seems like so many want it both ways. There is no denying the US is the biggest player, and as the economic crisis shows, our actions have an impact on the world economy. We now have a President that accepts what our role is, is committed to restoring our country to the place of responsible leadership while acting as a partner around the world, and is putting together a team that reflects that.

I am sorry you feel attacked, but you are the one who brought it up. So many folks from other countries want to have the ability to attack the USA for our faults, and tell us how we are affecting their countries. But the first time someone like me simply says something like "Another will be that our country will have moved in foreign policy matters in ways that will make us, and our world neighbors safer and more secure", which simply acknowledges that our actions have consequences for more than just ourselves, and you still have to make a smart assed comment. I repeat, which way do you want it?

I am no fan of the current administration, and am outraged at what they have done to our standing in the world community. I have acknowledged many times that our "take it or leave it" style of diplomacy is responsible. But that does not mean I will allow gratuitous shots to be taken. It was one of your own countrymen that acknowledged that far more good has been done in the world community than bad. The last eight years, given our traditions, have been a nightmare. It will end in mid January. Then we will be about the business of rebuilding our credibility with our neighbors, and assuming a responsible role in helping with the establishing of peace and prosperity.

Mick