I have noticed a trend in my excursions abroad . . . I have found that people have strong feeling towards the US and the US military. Many times people either love or hate the US and often its a lot of both. People from other countries naturally envy the US and our military / culture / economic prosperity because we are the most successful and blessed country. This may be changing in the years ahead but for now, we are numero uno. This also causes a great deal of hate abroad. Countries who have fallen from power or who have never experienced power are doomed to harbor resentment for the United States and all that we stand for.
Why is this important?
This is so important because it impacts every aspect of our lives. It controls our relations with other countries. Since so many countries like North Korea are undoubtably bitter at our success and affluence they will try to work against us and pump us for as much as possible. Additionally these countries will try to advance themselves from a military standpoint so that they can eclipse the US. The reality is that every nation wants to be the premier economic and military power like the US. We NEED TO REALIZE THIS so that we are under no illusions. Alliances are so beneficial but we have to remember that even our allies will likely sell us out to advance themselves if the rewards are thought to be greater than the repercussions.
For those of you who have traveled abroad, did you experience the same love / hate relationship people seem to have with the US? Believe me if you see it in the people you will see it in the politics as well.
