Aug 14 2008

What’s Wrong With Americans?

Published by Steve N. Lee at 6:44 pm under accountability, globalization

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Serious question. When they constantly stick their noses into the entire world’s business, we deserve to know. What the hell is wrong with them?

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  • One afternoon, after our car broke down, Ania and I were stranded in a desert. It was 111°F and 40 miles to the nearest town - we were in serious trouble. Luckily, a group of Lithuanians happened by and rescued us.
  • One evening, after a guide gave us bad advice, Ania and I were stuck 8000ft up a mountain in a thunderstorm. It was lightning and a four mile hike to safety - we were in serious trouble. Luckily, a middle-aged Italian couple happened by and rescued us.
  • One night, after receiving incomplete route information from a ranger, Ania and I were marooned in a forest. We’d no flashlights and a treacherous trail back - we were in serious trouble. Luckily, two young Spanish guys happened by and rescued us.

Isn’t it a wonderful world? Lithuanians, Italians, Spanish helping the English and Polish. What a truly heavenly world community.

Except…

  • That desert was the Mojave Desert… in America.
  • That mountaintop was Glacier Point… in America.
  • That forest was Sequoia National Park… in America.

So the obvious question is…? Yep - where were all the Americans? In a country of over 300 million people, you’d think at least one might have rescued us!

Why didn’t they?

Fear.

For all they knew, we were muggers, rapists, mass murderers. If they’d stopped, it would’ve surely been the last thing they ever did.

  • Because mass murderers always pay national park entrance fees to lurk in forests.
  • Rapists love a punishing four mile climb to hunt for victims atop a mountain.
  • Muggers find their richest marks by trailing 40 miles into the middle of a desert!

Ah, but maybe I’m making light of the American people’s dilemma. After all,

  • America suffered 9/11. 
  • It’s bred lunatic mass murderers.
  • It’s plagued by crime.

Americans have every right to be fearful.

So, when Americans no longer have the monopoly on fear, why are they so fearful of, well, everything?

Simple. Those in control like to keep them that way so they’re easier to manipulate.

But America likes to police the world. Is that a good idea if the American people themselves are afraid of everyone and everything?

But then, does America police the world? Or, whenever the opportunity arises, do those in control simply manipulate things for their own ends? America supposedly invaded Iraq on humanitarian grounds yet has America invaded China? Burma? Zimbabwe?

Do those in control actually crave a better world, a utopia, or do the simply crave more control and to hell with humanitarianism?

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So what would happen if somebody with true power actually did want to change the world? If a utopia was no longer a dream but a real possibility? Would they succeed? Or would those in control fear losing their power and fight to stop them?

This is such a fascinating subject that it actually forms the basis for ‘What if…?‘, my suspense thriller.

Think about it. Imagine what a glorious world it would be if someone with real power actually got off their butt, forsook their hidden agendas and power craving, and actually moulded the world into a disease-free, poverty-free, hunger-free paradise…

I know what you’re thinking - I’ve lost it! This is such an impossible concept it’s too ridiculous to talk about. I mean, think of the resources, the time, the effort, the logistics… It’s about as possible to achieve as… oh, I don’t know… putting a man on the moon…!

We, the ‘ordinary’ people, the minions who do the work that makes the world turn yet who don’t matter unless it’s election time or there’s something to buy, would love:

  • better education
  • better health
  • better conservation
  • better housing
  • better environments…

We want those things. But do those in control? Or do they just want to keep that control - AND ALL THE WONDROUS REWARDS IT BRINGS - and the easiest way to do that is to keep the world just as it is?

I find this subject fascinating. And frightening. Hence ‘What if…?‘.

So, why didn’t any Americans help Ania and I when we were in desperate need? Because the U.S. government and corporate America have paralysed the American people with fear over:

  • terrorism
  • global warming
  • oil prices
  • China
  • unemployment
  • religious unrest
  • inflation
  • health scares
  • food additives
  • gum disease
  • bathroom grime
  • not having soft, silky, shiny hair…

Will things ever change?

Only if men one day stop craving wealth and power.

But maybe that’s too cynical.

  • Alternative energy was once the preserve of crackpots. 
  • Global warming was once laughed at. 
  • Conservation was once sneered at as uneconomical and unnecessary.

Worldviews do change.

Those in control allow it. But only infinitesimally slowly. While they bleed everything possible out of the developing situations.

Isn’t there anything we ‘tiny’ people can do?

It’d have to be something big, like a general strike, or boycotting a major election.

But we know that’s not going to happen, don’t we?

Why?

Fear. Fear of what will happen if we don’t vote but others do. (Yeah, because that grey, non-descript guy we like really does have our best interests at heart, whereas that other grey, non-descript guy…)

All we can hope for is that our tiny grass roots changes will eventually filter upwards.

And how long will that take, if ever?

In ‘What if…?‘, through sacrifice and struggle, a character attains the power to change the entire globe. Unfortunately, it looks like that’s exactly where such benevolence will remain - books, prayers, fantasies, dreams…

Fear. We think we’re all so free and yet we couldn’t be more enchained.

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So go. See. Feel. Live.
Steve

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If you like my blog - the style, the passion, the philosophy - you’ll absolutely love ‘What if…?’, my suspense thriller. What’s it about?

When a mysterious stranger fights to end world poverty, his seeming ability to heal with just a touch catapults him to fame but thrusts him into a deadly struggle with corporate America and the White House that like the world just the way it is: under their control - poverty, disease, wars and all.

But can the stranger truly heal? Or is he the biggest villain of all, perpetrating the most elaborate scam of all time?

Is it any good?

‘”What if…?” is virtually flawless - Lee’s vision is precise, poetic, and skillfully crafted. It’s great writing with a great story, very well told.’
Nicholas Grabowsky, Bestselling Novelist 

‘An engaging and exciting thriller with a difference. It would hold its own with many of the books in the bestseller lists - and then some.’
Scott Pack, Book Reviewer, Me and My Big Mouth

Please click here for more reviews and info.
Or check out Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk or Barnes & Noble

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40 Responses to “What’s Wrong With Americans?”

  1. # Gorilly GirlNo Gravataron 14 Aug 2008 at 8:46 pm

    Most are just involved with theirselves anymore it seems to me. I still try to help all peoples in trouble or need. No empathy is floating around hardley anymore. People have put up these brick walls to humanity shunning them if they are diffrent and this is so wrong….what makes any nation better than the other or a person better than the other??? Nothing to me. What would make a diffrence is if all peoples got along, but alas this will never be…will it. Give a smile people or a hand and then you are changing the world for if we keep on this path it will be to our own demise will it not????

    BIG Gorilly Hugs…..Gorilly Girl

  2. # SaschaNo Gravataron 14 Aug 2008 at 9:28 pm

    A long overdue question, Steve… *sigh* Sometimes you have to wonder what happened to peoples’ (I’m talking ‘Americans’ here) own ability of thinking… it seems to me they just… swallow everything their gov’t (Bush, in this case) tells them and they just *don’t* question it AT ALL! (you’ve GOT to get yourself the book ‘The Prosecution of George W. Bush for Murder’ by Vince Bugliosi, by the way, it’s an EXCELLENT book with outstanding research, after reading it you’ll ask yourself whether us Europeans are the only rational thinking people left)

    Anyway, welcome home!

    Sascha

  3. # Gwen MooreNo Gravataron 14 Aug 2008 at 10:09 pm

    I agree with you about the americans. Sadly though, I am one of them. I never could feel proud of that fact and have always been ashamed of the way this country is. I have done my best to do what I could to make it better, to treat others with respect, and help all those that I could. There are some really good people here though and they would have helped you if they had been there when you were having problems. Many believed Bush’s lies in the beginning. They did not want to believe others like me who tried to warn them, now too late they are learning. I hope whoever gets in office next time will do better.

    Other than that the only thing I can say about all of this is…..I’m sorry.

  4. # MOONNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 12:12 am

    WE IN AMERICA ARE NOT ALL LIKE THAT–PEOPLE LIKE TO MAKE JOKES ABOUT THE SOUTH (I’M FROM LOUISIANA) BUT DOWN HERE PEOPLE STILL WAVE AT STRANGERS & FRIENDS–WE HELP PEOPLE THAT NEED IT AND GENERALLY PEOPLE HERE ARE POLITE–WE BELIEVE IN GOD & COUNTRY! OUR GOVERMENT IS MORE WORRIED ABOUT SPECIAL INTREST GROUPS AND MAKING $$$$$$$$$ THAN “WE THE PEOPLE”! BUSH IS A DISGRACE AND THE NEXT 4 YRS. ISN’T LOOKING ANY BETTER–WE HAVE TO FIGHT OUR OWN GOV. TO KEEP THEM FROM DESTROYING OUR OWN COUNTRY, AS THEY ARE DOING TO OTHERS! ALL PEOPLE HERE ARE NOT RUDE–THE GOV. HAS TAKEN AWAY THE RIGHTS OF PARENTS TO DICIPLINE THEIR CHILDREN OR MANY NOW DAYS ARE JUST TO BUSY TO TEACH THEM RIGHT FROM WRONG OR DON’T CARE–SO SAD! THINGS ARE BAD EVERYWHERE, NOT JUST HERE–MANY PEOPLE DON’T FEEL SAFE ANYMORE AND FOR GOOD REASON. IT JUST SEEMS TO BE A LITTLE BETTER DOWN HERE IN THE SOUTH.

  5. # Loeburg9No Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 12:47 am

    Boy has it been tough to get picked up hitching for years and years. What every happened to those Samaritans who helped the guy on the side of the road. They are tough to find today. Why?
    see ya,
    mcd #9

  6. # MorganNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 4:49 am

    What’s wrong with Americans? Man, that’s a loaded question. It is all about fear. Our politicians, the economists the news media have all convinced us that this nice life we’ve surrendered to will come crashing down at any minute and we will live in the streets like someone from a poverty stricken nation. People that I have known for years are succumbing to the fear of the dreaded illegal alien which apparently is crashing our entire economy even though these same people have lived here and been employed for years. We must close our borders to protect ourselves!!!!! So we build some cheesy little fence cuz you know that any Mexican citizen can turn into an illegal immigrant and steal all of our resources and contribute absolutely nothing at any given minute. I don’t know why they are building this absurd fence when everyone knows all you have to do is put up a gate and hang “no trespassing” and “beware of dog” signs on it DUH!! Yes, Americans have bought so completely into the fear that we will not be the strong, mighty , rich country that we have been since our birth that we go bullying about in the world hoping to gain allies when all we really gain is hatred and suspicion. We are afraid, we are afraid of our role in the world and we are afraid that where once we were safe due to distance from our enemies now there are computers and mass air travel. We are no longer this little island that can be easily defended. You can take our economy down with a computer or a bucket of oil and we know it and our politicians know it and it is to their advantage to keep us in fear so that they can continue to manipulate and exploit us and the rest of the world. P.S. After reading about your travel exploits I’ve decided that if I see you on a plane I’m getting off!!! But only after I make certain that you are safe and comfortable–I wouldn’t leave you in the desert heat, honest.

  7. # RzNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 7:37 am

    Enjoyed teh reading. I’m from Brazil, where people are also held down by
    a slightly different fear mongering - still, the powers that be keep their control.

  8. # kim sNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 9:10 am

    You’ve opened up a can o’ worms Steve with your query.
    It’s a good one and one which has several answers but ultimately all answers come down to control.
    Pre-9/11 the American people were fairly open and welcoming, however, as you’ve noted with your experiences, Americans are fearful of strangers, even British ones. There are exceptions mind you, as our friend Moon from Louisiana has pointed out above. In small-towns all over the country, people still wave and greet strangers with warmth and hospitality. This is the America of my childhood. Neighbours helping neighbours, whether they knew them or not.
    The current admin has taken advantage of the power of its office and used that power against the citizens and residents by assuring the people continue to be afraid. (a fearful populous is much easier to control than one which is is unafraid) Americans have been told to be afraid of non-documented workers, as Morgan has pointed out; of terrorists committing another action which MAY be far worse than the Sept. 01 attacks (the very idea the govt could be behind these attacks makes many Americans fearful too)
    Job losses, home repossessions, crime, drugs… the list is endless. However, it should be noted those in power use these fears to cow Americans into allowing freedoms granted by our founding fathers to be taken away. The Patriot Act is a classic example. Never before has a bill passed into law in such a short time, making many believe it was drawn up long before the 9/11 attacks! Hmmm… does that mean Washington knew about the attacks BEFORE they happened??! Many think yes.
    The Military Commissions Act of 2006 saw further citizen’s rights taken away, Habeas Corpus which was a founding principle brought over from England before there was a USA.
    And who is responsible for these and other laws which have brought the US to its knees?? Greedy politicians and Big Bu$ine$$. Those who see globalisation as a means to extend their control beyond the borders of the US. PNAC, is a fine example of that idea.
    Living in the UK has given me a better perspective of what is happening in the US; seeing media which is not controlled by ‘the powers’, as well as meeting people from around the world and listening to their views, has opened my eyes to the ‘perceived threats’ to understand them for what they truly are; propaganda to control the masses.
    As an American and more importantly, a world citizen, I have come to believe govt. is hazardous to human health and welfare. That people around the planet want nothing more than to live in peace, raise their families with enough to live a good life thus giving them the opportunity to live without threat to their welfare and the world’s environment.
    So m’friend, before you tar all Americans with the same brush, please consider the forces which have brought them to their current state.

    False
    Evidence
    Appearing
    Real!

    All brought to you by those who seek to control not only the US, but the planet at large.
    The time has arrived for the human race to stand united against this power and demand our human rights as citizens of Planet Earth, forgetting our differences and seeing our sameness. Differences in race, creed, colour, ethnic background, religion and gender are what separate us, our humanness is what unifies us. The choice is ours, do we continue to allow those who seek to control us to divide us, or do we say enough and stand as one people? The choice is ours.

    Change your thinking…
    Change your world

    You know there really is still a chance for peace and that chance will definitely increase if we each do our piece. So let’s make peace — in our homes, in our own hearts, in our relationships, in our communities, in all of our dealings and in the world. Peace be with us all.

  9. # KathyNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 9:42 am

    Wonderful, I just wrote one about all that is wrong and how we actually are no better or worse than other countries & it went to a blank page. (cute joke about Lake Shore Drive & how 105 MPH is the mandatory speed, if you don’t want to get ran over by other drivers:) But in short Steve, I’m so very sorry you guys had such a bad experiences here in the States. It doesn’t reflect well on us at all. I’m glad you’re both safe, and again I apologize for my Country and my Countrymen for their insensitive & selfish behavior.
    Kathy

  10. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 9:44 am

    I’m pleased to hear you in the South take things a little differently. Good stuff, Moon. Thanks. ‘We the people’ v $$$? Well, like that was ever going to be a fair fight?! I hope you do manage to reign in your government, Moon - they really are crippling your wonderful country and yet so few Americans seem to appreciate that. We have the same discipline problem in England - there was a time a slap from a parent or teacher was the ideal solution to a problem with a child (not EVERY solution to EVERY problem, note please so this blog doesn’t go off course!) but that’s all gone now. Crime is up. Particularly knife crime. Hmmm, wonder if there’s a connection?

    Yes, if only everyone could get along, Gorilly Girl. It’s okay to build walls as long as they keep out the right things, but so many people today simply want to keep out everything and everyone, don’t they? Thanks.

    Haven’t heard of that book, Sascha. Thanks for the pointer, though, unfortunately I rarely get time to read, these days. I wouldn’t say swallowing every single thing a politician comes out with is the preserve only of Americans, but they do seem to lack the nerve/wit to do anything else a lot of the time. So sad. But then that’s what the politicians want and they have the power to see it’s done. Europeans? Well, the English aren’t that much better to be honest!

    Thanks, guys. Your comments are always appreciated.

    Steve

  11. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 9:45 am

    Please don’t feel ashamed of your country, Gwen. It isn’t your country to blame here. America has some wonderful ideals and has achieved some great things. Unfortunately they’re mostly either forgotten or corrupted by those in control. I’m proud to be English and yet, historically, the English have done some pretty awful things. The problem is that Americans have been so insular for so long that now, because of 9/11, oil prices, debt problems, etc, the whole nation feels like the next two minutes could see them penniless and out on the streets. And the only reason they feel like that is because that’s what your leaders want you to feel. So sad. Nice to know you try to buck the trend, though.

    Tell me about it, mcd. Yep, Samaritans are a critically endangered species!

    Brazilian? Cool. I’ve always wanted to go there but it’s such a long way and such a high price!

    Yes, there’s fear mongering in every nation to a degree. What it consists of varries but the reasons and the outcome are exactly the same - control. A sad reflection on the state of the world in the 21st century! Thanks, Rz.

    Thanks for such a thoughtful and lengthy comment, Morgan. Nice to get the perspective of someone in the midst of such a ‘crisis’! Still think of the tourist dollars you’ll get in years to come - the Great Fence of America! Just oppress the people that little bit more and you’ll be able to twin with China! But seriously, you make some good points. It’s a pity that some of your friends are allowing their heads to be turned by your politicians’ garbage. But, as I’ve said earlier, America isn’t alone - the whole world suffers this same problem to varrying degrees. The problem is because the U.S. is so big and so powerful the problem is amplified. Such a shame it’s almost criminal. I wonder what future generations will think of the times we live in?!

    Great comments, people. Thanks so much.

    Steve

  12. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 10:14 am

    Kim - your comment is the length of a blog post in itself. Thanks for thinking my post worthy of such time and thought.

    Yes, 9/11 had a tremendous impact on the people, not least in the ability of the government to control them! I’ve read a little of the Patriot Act, etc, and yes, it did sound quite scary in the freedoms it could interfer with, freedoms which are supposedly inherent to America and what makes it great. It’s scary that the government has been able to do that.

    I’m pleased that you’re an American living outside America so can give a clear perspective on where I’m coming from and the value in what I’m saying, as I’m sure the ‘average’ American will write much of what I’m saying off as the ravings of some limey loon! Thanks for validating my thoughts.

    Don’t worry, I’m not tarring all Americans with the same brush. This blog was merely a means with which to try to reach people and make them think - the easiest way to do that is not to stroke their egos and tell them what they want to here (the government can do that as part of their control exercises!) but to hedge on the side of controversy then present a reasonable picture/argument of what is really happening that the average guy will see is plainly true.

    As for your thoughts on peace and drawing humanity together… Kim, don’t take this as a sales pitch, but if you haven’t already, you really should read my book - you’d love it.

    Don’t worry, Kathy, we didn’t have a bad time in America. On the contrary, we had a great time. It’s just some moments could have played out a little differently, shall we say! Thanks for your concern, but please don’t feel you have to apologize personally.

    And before I receive any abuse from some irrate, stars and bars loving, patriot… as for Americans - the TV and movies I watch are not home grown, but 90% American; my book is set in America; most of my online friends are American; Ania and I have spent our last two summer holidays in America. So, please no one get me wrong - I’m not bashing America or Americans. All I’d like to do is point out that things could be so much better for them, and the rest of the world, if a huge proportion of them looked at life and their situation differently and stopped swallowing all the BS that’s dished out to them on a daily basis.

    I’m sorry to hear your comment was lost. That does happen sometimes. It’s happened to me on other blogs and I swear my head off! Nowadays, if I remember, I always copy a comment just in case there’s a glitch on submission. Sorry, Kathy. I can imagine your frustration.

    Thanks you guys. Great stuff.
    Steve

  13. # Cate GrovesNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 12:56 pm

    Steve, you have a point, but I guess the British are glad as hell we stuck our noses into a war that had nothing to do with us ’til Peal Harbor, when years before that FDR finessed the Lend-Lease Act to send you all warships, planes and other military necessities

  14. # patricia lasekNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 1:33 pm

    Steve, I love it. so, when is the novel coming out? It should be required reading in all schools. But that would probably be deemed subversive by some rights groups.

  15. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 3:18 pm

    Thanks, Cate. WWII? Yes, it was good of you to turn up for that bash… though, it would have been all the better if you’d arrived a little earlier! Had you not finally done something when you did, though, somehow I doubt that it would’ve continued to be ‘nothing to do with’ you for very much longer!

    That said, check out the bottom of page 273 of ‘What if…?’ - I promise you that you’ll be absolutely stunned at what you read there and it will give you a whole new perspective on corporate America and your government of the day! Honest! I’m not fooling.

    Patricia, thanks for loving it! Always what a writer loves to hear. As for the novel? It’s out now! Just click any of the links at the end of the post. Or… go on then… I’ll give you another: http://www.steve-n-lee.com

    I’m sure that anyone with any sort of power or real wealth would deem it subversive, but such as you or I would see it as a wonderful book filled with hope of what the world really should be like and actually could become. That’s how I got the testimonials from the people that I did. It’s full of action and intrigue and yet has a caring heart which can really touch people. A friend on Myspace told me it had her in tears on occasion.

    Thanks both of you. Have a great weekend,
    Steve

  16. # Terrie WNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 7:44 pm

    I am an American.

    I will not apologize for being an American.

    I will apologize for my government’s (and corporations) appalling and corrupt behavior around the world and at home. So to the world, I humbly apologize for the majority of this country’s peoples having brought you the likes of GW Bush, Deadeye Dickeyboy Cheney, Dumsfeld, Wolf-owitz, Rover et al. My shame at the actions of my government knows no depths. My embarrassment of/at/for their actions against the world at large will always be with me until the end of my days. What saddens me most is that so many innocent people have died and continue to die because of this abomination we call “Corporate America’. No amount of my shame, humiliation, embarrassment or sadness will ever heal the hearts or lives of the Iraqi or Afghani people. There is no amount of redress I can give as an individual that will ever satisfy their pain and anguish. Nothing I will ever say or do will ever bring their loved-ones back. I am one person. That goes for any nation anywhere around the globe that our corrupt, greedy, war-mongering parasitic government has left or is leaving their grubby footprints on.

    I am so sorry.

    BUT, I am an American who loves her country–not her government–her country. I love our people–for the most part. I love our ability to come together despite our vast and myriad differences when something or someone threatens our homes and lives. I love our ability to care for people and empathize with all peoples of all nations that are seeking a better life or to just live in peace. I love our ability to take care of our own when they need a helping hand. It is that America that I love.

    It is that America that is dying.

    You hit the nail on the head my dear friend, Steve. FEAR. Now I live in a nation that has been suckled on fear and propaganda. Many millions have drank deeply of the kool aid and believe the lies. Yet, at the same time, slowly, many more millions are forsaking the kool aid and are awakening. To their horror. Those of us that have been awake through the entire nightmare (that began back with Ronnie Ray-gun–I know it started before him but he made it ‘in-your-face’) have been called many things and have had to guard our selves well. Now we are no longer the crazy, left-wing, radical, tree-hugging, hippie, whack-job conspiracy nuts. We are beginning to be listened to–with dawning horror in their glazed eyes. Fear. Oh, the die-hards will never admit to it and will always blame everyone and everything else but themselves or their preferred party or their concept of religion. But millions more are awake and are saying, NO MORE.

    So now I think, it is those men devoid of character and mean of spirit, the manipulators, the war-mongers, the profiteers, the propagandists, I think it is they now who are afraid. And they will do anything to keep their power and their ill-gotten wealth. Therein will be their undoing.

    The American people will win in the end. After hundreds of thousands of us are dead, we will win. What you may not see or feel over there in the UK and the rest of the world is our–unrest. The ‘natives’ are restless, the natives are not happy and the natives have had enough. There is war coming–right here in our own ‘backyard’. If certain things do or do not (depending on which ’side’ you are on) go as they should during the election–there will be ‘civil-strife’. Why do you think our pundits keep saying ‘this is a historic election’ or ‘this may be the most important election in our history’? They know, they feel it, they see it in the streets. FEAR and LOATHING. Fear left unchecked becomes hate. The fuse is lit and the powder-keg is waiting.

    It is human nature to fear the unknown. Some people capitalize on that fear to control. But after a time the control mechanisms fail. Control is lost. They are now losing their control.

    I refuse to live in fear. I have refused to listen to the lies and propaganda from day 1. There are millions more like me out here in the US of A. We have had enough. So has the world.

    I am sorry too, Steve, that you came across no one of my ilk. You would have not been left to parish in the desert or be struck by lightning on a mountainside or to be eaten by bears in the forest. I, or my kind, would have helped you get to safety. I am sorry that all you came in contact with was those of fear and loathing. Those of us that still care for our fellow-man ARE out there, we are just very hard to find right now.

  17. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 8:23 pm

    Heartfelt, stirring, honest, caring, meaningful… Terrie, if only your government and execs had the passion and integrity that flows through your veins and through your pen!

    I sincerely hope there are millions of your countrymen echoing those same sentiments. The world sees little hope from the outside, so it’s reassuring to know there is real humanity pumping at the heart of that powerful nation.

    I know some web browsers will skim this post and instantly dismiss it or add a disparaging remark without ever reading what it’s really about. I hope the majority, though, make it down to the comments section as your words and those of many of your fellow commentators truly deserve to be read. I’m sure there’ll be many readers wishing they had the eloquence or nerve to write such an emotional and empowering response. People shy away from declaring such a position if it’s too far from the norm. Let’s hope yours really isn’t. Let’s hope November does see some sort of change. Let’s hope it’s the change that America really needs, that the American people really need, indeed, that the world really needs.

    That said, if the powder-keg is fully primed and the fuse is lit - should we really wish for the election to go well? Because it won’t go ‘well’, will it? The best you can hope for is that it goes better than everyone’s nightmare expectations. Wouldn’t it be better if it was a disaster and the people actually did something about it? That would be a wakeup call to the entire world. If the mighty White House can be bitch-slapped by the people, no nation on earth is safe. Think how politicians around the globe would look so tenderly upon their constituents then.

    But, I’m sorry, I can’t bring myself to believe there is a powder keg. Not from this great distance. I fear, like my countrymen do in similar circumstances, Americans will gripe and moan and curse and argue - amongst each other - but little will actually change. I dearly hope I’m wrong.

    Thank you for contributing so much to this discussion, Terrie. Have a wonderful weekend, my friend,
    Steve

  18. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 8:27 pm

    Terrie, please tell me you copied that comment before you clicked ’submit’!

  19. # Terrie WNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 8:30 pm

    I did :)

  20. # JoshNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 8:54 pm

    There is no such thing as an “American.” America is made of Germans, Irish, Russians, Africans, Brazilians, Portuguese etc etc. The Italians, Spanish and Lithuanians were American. Why else would they have rescued you, they wouldn’t fly all the way over here just for that.

  21. # Tim RedfernNo Gravataron 15 Aug 2008 at 10:17 pm

    America is a nation of sheep, owned by wolves and led by pigs. What the hell is wrong with us? Somewhere along the way, Americans got the nonsensical notion that we’re the elite of the planet, and therefore entitled to the best of everything, and to never have the worst of things happen to us. America’s sight is turned outward toward the rest of the world, while our own people go to hell here at home. I am ashamed to be an American. In fact, I do not even refer to myself as, or consider myself to be, an American. I am a Californian of Irish-German descent. I love this country, the regions and cultures and, of course, the people, but I HATE the government!
    Steve, I appreciate the fact that you realize that the American people are distinctly separate from our government, and, being a Care2 member, you have had the chance to meet some of the best of us (if I do say so myself). Thanks so much for understanding that we here in the States are the FIRST victims of our government, and we don’t like it any better than the rest of the world. Cheers, my friend! :-))

  22. # Roxann C.No Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 3:31 am

    Steve, I agree with you that most American people are fearful to help strangers. I live in New Orleans, Louisiana and I was raised to look over my shoulder and be careful where ever I go because of all the crime in the city. Two nights ago driving down a main highway a car was over turned in the road and my boyfriend and my daughter stopped and helped get the man out of the car and my daughter called the police. I got a call from my daughter telling me why they were going to be a little longer than usual picking up the ordered pizza than usual, so I wouldn’t worry. Not all Americans are the same more are caring of their fellow man than others, but that’s in every culture.

  23. # Roxann C.No Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 3:33 am

    Steve, I agree with you that most American people are fearful to help strangers. I live in New Orleans, Louisiana and I was raised to look over my shoulder and be careful where ever I go because of all the crime in the city. Two nights ago driving down a main highway a car was over turned in the road and my boyfriend and my daughter stopped and helped get the man out of the car and my daughter called the police. I got a call from my daughter telling me why they were going to be a little longer than usual picking up the ordered pizza , so I wouldn’t worry. Not all Americans are the same more are caring of their fellow man than others, but that’s in every culture.

  24. # MOONNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 6:10 am

    MANY HERE HAVE ALREADY READ THIS-SENT TO ME BY A FRIEND AND I SENT ON TO FRIENDS-SADLY, I THINK THIS HAS ALOT TO DO WITH WHAT IS HAPPENING IN OUR COUNTRY.

    My parents told me about Mr. Common Sense early in my life and told me I would do well to call on him when making decisions. It seems he was always around in my early years but less and less as time passed by. Today I read his obituary. Please join me in a moment of silence in
    > remembrance, for Common Sense had served us all so well for so many
    > generations.
    >
    >
    > Obituary
    > Common Sense
    >
    > Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape.
    >
    > He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm, life isn’t always fair, and maybe it was my fault.
    >
    > Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don’t spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not children are in charge).
    >
    > His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well intentioned but
    > overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.
    >
    > Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job they themselves failed to do in disciplining their unruly children.
    > It declined even further when schools were required to get parental
    > consent to administer Aspirin, sun lotion or a sticky plaster to a
    > student, but could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
    >
    > Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became
    > contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn’t defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar can sue you for assault.
    >
    > Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to
    > realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in
    > her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.
    >
    > Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust; his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason. He is survived by three stepbrothers; I Know my Rights, Someone Else is to Blame, and I’m a Victim.
    >
    > Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If
    > you still remember him, pass this on. If not, join the majority and do
    > nothing.
    BRENDA

  25. # irisNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 6:55 am

    I Have to comment here and say I am an American and I could never ever leve someone in the conditions you have discribed. I am also the person holding the door for everyone comming after me, so there you go. I can say that fear will envelope me at times, the economy, Nuclear war, will my children have to fight in iran, those types of things but never in my neighbors. Maybe it is I am to trusting a person, but I cn tell you I know it is my duty to help people.

    Iris

  26. # sandy valencourNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 7:57 am

    I’m sorry but I have to disagree about Americans. I have been helped by people my whole life. Maybe it is the part of the country you are from but I can honestly say in 13 western states people have been great. My husband and I broke down one night (my husband could fix anything) but a couple minutes later a car of teens (high school) pulled over to help. They were great kids, small town of 15,000. My sister and I broke down in colorado, big time and someone turned around with his family and told us where to go and what to expect. We are seniors, now, and could have had more help since it took a case of water and over an hour to the next town. I can’t count the times and we have stopped also. Sure ya gotta be careful, very careful, especially because we are women and not taller than 5′1″. We aren’t afraid because someone might be brown, black , yellow or green. We are afraid of this government and what they might do but that has never shut us up in print or vocally. I was raised by a WWll vet . FEAR is CONTROL and wrong. This government won’t shut me up ever because they have broken laws I never believed would be broken or so disrespected. Thank God my Dad is dead so he doesn’t have to see this crap. He so loved his country and fought for everyone’s rights. I refuse to feed into anyones fear. This is my country, good or bad and I love our Americans except for bigotry and hatred and forced religion. Most people are good descent hard working people and have kind hearts. Hell, it us the citizens that jump to help people any place that has a disaster. I think everyone is selling Americans short. Sure we all have differences and we all handle things in different ways for different reasons. In the west, as well as the south, people still wave, say hi on the street, ask to help you when you look confused or lost. Big towns are more weary, granted. My Dad waved to everyone on the roads he ran into til the day he died in 1995. If you want to rant and rave about the judicial system and irresponsible law suit, quit whinning and do something about it. We raised a generation of bums that look for easy money and then we do nothing when they can sue you for helping them. Take some blame yourselves. So damn easy to complain but another story if you are to get off your butts and change the laws or enforce the ones we already have. I have watched this country change for 63 years. We stripped away any power schools have, parents have, judges have, no punishment and God forbide if someone can whine he had a bad childhood. Got new for ya, nobody had a great childhood so that isn’t an excuse for a damn thing. It’ll make ya or break ya and if you break, take the consequenses.. Personally this kind of thinking really hurts America. No one is a victim if they don’t want to be. Been there so don’t bother whinning. If you don’t learn from bad things, then you are a total idiot. Like my grandmother used to say, without fertilizer there is no blooms.

  27. # Joycey BerryNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 2:21 pm

    I miss the America I grew up in. I felt safe and people were so caring and never in a hurry to give a kind word. Life was so laid back. There are too many people in the world now and times have changed for the worse. Too much corruption anymore. Jobs going to other countries and prices going up in everything. It has become a sad world. But we still have so many good people out there that help to make this country a great place to live. Thanks Steve.

  28. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 7:08 pm

    Iris, I also hold the door open for others. How often I get a ‘thank you’ is quite another issue! I think that in itself speaks volumes. It’s a pity most people these days don’t feel it their duty to help others. Thanks for adding to the conversation.

    Thanks for commenting, Sandy. I don’t really know where start a reply as you cover a lot of ground there - easily enough to a whole handful of blog posts! I know what you mean about small town v big city - as Moon commented above. I think that’s the same the world over - people are simply friendlier. As for years gone by, that’s been addressed by others too, but I think you’ve got a point. And please don’t get me started on people whining, the compensation cutlure and people ‘deserving’ the good life just because they’ve been born! Oh, and the jusitice system… bad childhoods… power taken away from parents and teachers… Sandy, you’re killing me! Safe to say, you bring up some excellent points.

    Hopefully I’ll be able to address some of them in future posts. So be sure to call back! Thanks, Sandy

    Don’t worry, Joycey, you aren’t alone, personally or the U.S. as a nation, when it comes to thinking that yesterday consisted of kinder, happier, more laid back times. Many people in England feel just the same. I imagine it’s the same in many countries. The pace of life is much faster now. People suffer more stress. So it’s understandable to a degree. But the problem is the ‘I want it now; I deserve it now’ attitude - that’s the main culprit. Thanks for contributing, Joycey.

    Thanks everyone,
    Steve

  29. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 7:37 pm

    I can see why you passed that on, Moon. Yes, very apt. I’ve commented a number of times in various posts on common sense falling from favour in today’s busy times when everyone is a victim of something or other. It is a sad reflection on our times when the humour in your comment isn’t that funny when you consider that most of it is actually true. It’s downright scary!

    Thanks for taking the time to dig this out to share with us, Moon.

    You should be proud of how you’ve raised your daughter, Roxann. It’s a pity more parents don’t see it as their job to instill virtues like honesty, compassion, integrity and responsibility in their kids. As Moon’s comment says, many parents don’t bother and then complain if anyone else does - I’ve been there! Kids causing havoc in a public place, so you say something, only to be receive the parents’ scorn because they can control their own children without anyone interferring thank you very much - so if they can, why don’t they!? Thanks, Roxann.

    You did make me laugh with your honesty, there, Tim - “America is a nation of sheep, owned by wolves and led by pigs.” I see a man after my own heart - similar thinking to my blog’s title: Lions led by Sheep. Yes, I appreciate the distinction. Can you imagine what state the world would be in if the people weren’t separate from the government, but supported them fully in everything they did? Yes, you are the first victims, but the government’s reach and number of victims seems to increase by the day almost. When is it ever going to stop? Sadly, my little blog isn’t going to reach enough people. There are people saying the same thing across the media, but so many people are blind to it as, well, who wants to admit they’re weak, or gullible, or just plain stupid and have been manipulated most of their lives into believing utter BS from every quarter? It’s an awful position we find ourselves in. No nation is immune from this brand of fear. I wish I could see an end. Thanks, Tim.

    Josh, there’s no such thing as an Englishman either by that reckoning. In fact, there’s only a world full of Ethiopians (if memory serves). If they were Americans, those ‘Lithuanians’ we met sure did have a strange American accent - so thick it was like a different language. And I’m not just talking about spelling ‘colour’ without a ‘u’, or replacing the ‘e’ in grey with an ‘a’.

    Thanks you guys. Have a great weekend,
    Steve

  30. # Susan LNo Gravataron 16 Aug 2008 at 10:13 pm

    Some of us Americans do help people out. Yes, many are afraid. I think it is the way they were raised. My husband doesn’t help people out and I blame that on his mother. She is afraid of everything and worries about everything. I was raised differently. My father believed in helping people out. So I think it has to do with where and how one was raised.

    I do bet England was very glad the US stuck it’s nose in before Pearl Harbor.

  31. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 17 Aug 2008 at 11:23 am

    Yes, it’s a lot to do with how we are raised. But not only our home environment, but the general one we are swallowed up by the moment we leave that protective shell - not that the outside world doesn’t bleed into that sanctuary once we turn the TV on or open a paper once we learn to do so. Where and how does factor into it, but you can NEVER get away from the influences of the corporate world or government.

    As I said in an earlier reply to a Cate’s comment: “WWII? Yes, it was good of you to turn up for that bash… though, it would have been all the better if you’d arrived a little earlier! Had you not finally done something when you did, though, somehow I doubt that it would’ve continued to be ‘nothing to do with’ you for very much longer!

    That said, check out the bottom of page 273 of ‘What if…?’ - I promise you that you’ll be absolutely stunned at what you read there and it will give you a whole new perspective on corporate America and your government of the day! Honest! I’m not fooling.”

    Thanks, Susan. Hope your weekend is going well,
    Steve

  32. # phoibosNo Gravataron 17 Aug 2008 at 9:43 pm

    I am American and I’ll tell you where the fear is truly coming from. We aren’t top dog any longer. if we continue the path we’ve been we will have second world status in less than 10 years.

    Like a species smelling the coming of it’s own extinction America cowers at the knowledge that she will not be Rome for long. And evidently we’ve decided to go down kicking and screaming.

  33. # DeniseNo Gravataron 18 Aug 2008 at 12:11 am

    It’s so sad…& so true, but I’m definitely not one of those who will ignore those in need! It’s amazing how selfish & afraid people are here.

  34. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 18 Aug 2008 at 4:40 pm

    Yes, that’s a good point, Phoibos. Change is often frightening, especially when it’s change that knocks, or seems to knock, you down a peg or two. But then it’s those in control that are making people kick and scream, isn’t it? They could make the transition smooth, but instead they’ve found another 0pportunity to manipulate the masses by frightening them more than necessary. Thanks for commenting.

    I’m glad to you hear you’re a helper, Denise, like many of my readers. Nice to know there are people like you out there. But yes, it is eye opening to experience, first-hand, just how many people turn a blind eye to those in need. Not that you can blame people entirely after their government has them so frightened they don’t know whether they’re coming or going. Thanks, Denise.

    Steve

  35. # GregNo Gravataron 20 Aug 2008 at 11:24 pm

    Well, being American and having helped and having been helped by Americans I think much of your premise is … off.

    Probably the reason that you were saved by tourists is that there weren’t any American citizens in the immediate area to help you out. Otherwise they would have. Most of us would be quite happy to lend a hand if we were in a position to do so, and we wouldn’t give a sh*t about what color you were or what country you were from.

    Heck, if it did turn out that you were some really unsavory character? Maybe that American would have a gun and give you what you needed.

    I would be quite easy to go into critiques of the European and British points of view and wonder about where their rationality went, but that’s another rant.

    # Alternative energy was once the preserve of crackpots.
    # Global warming was once laughed at.
    # Conservation was once sneered at as uneconomical and unnecesary

    Times, change, economics, change, and the world changes. Alt energy was laughed at because “mainstream” energy was so cheap. Global Warming WAS taken seriously, but is now being increasingly laughed at as being total BS, and conservation is in about the same place as Alt energy.

    It’s a fun fantasy of some that we Americans live in fear. We don’t. And I think it’s cool that you British aren’t at all concerned about train bombs, crime, immigration, etc. Takes guts. Maybe we should shake hands on that.

    And you know, maybe our energy would be better spent helping each other up, reducing the size of our respective nanny-state governments, and getting together to deal with the real scoundrels, such as S. Hussein (done!,) Castro, Mugabe, etc.

  36. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 21 Aug 2008 at 11:08 am

    Sorry, Greg, but I couldn’t disagree with you more and, as you’ve obviously read the entire post, I’m surprised that you find there’s so much you find at fault - not to mention that you seem to have the wrong end of the stick concerning the British (as I pointed out in the post, we’ve probably been bombed by terrorists more times than the US so we ARE concerned about terrorism; we have a higher crime rate than the US which DOES bother us; immigration? You want to check the stats on how many hundreds of thousands of East Europeans have come here legally and illegally in recent years. Oh, yes, we ARE concerend!).

    As for being saved by tourists because we were in tourist areas - are you saying that Americans don’t visit their own national treasures? If so, that makes you a very sad nation. But I know that’s not true. A ranger in Sequioa National Park told us that 50% of their visitors are American. Further, the Mojave desert is hardly a tourist trap! For the sake of brevity, I didn’t go into the whole story of each problem we had, so you’ll just have to trust me that there were Americans about and they just passed on by. The tourist argument simply doesn’t hold water.

    I don’t know if this is some kind of macho BS or if you truly believe that America doesn’t have a problem with fear and isn’t manipulated by the government and corporations. Or maybe you just think I’m into bashing the US? Both those former attitudes are probably to blame for many of the problems your country has to face - denial is a major problem in most areas of life. As for the latter attitude - that I’m an America hater - see my previous comments - I’ve been there on two summer holidays in recent years; I set my novel there; most of my online friends are American…

    As for European rationality - I didn’t single America out; I did say that other countries suffered fear-mongering and manipulation, too.

    The only point I would agree on is that we should deal with the world’s tyrants together. But unless there’s real profit in it for those in control I don’t see that happening any time soon, which simply enforces the propositions laid out in my post.

    Thanks for contributing, Greg. I appreciate you taking the time out of your day to share your thoughts. Intelligent comments are always welcome, even if they suggest I’m talking complete garbage!
    Steve

  37. # NOT SCAREDNo Gravataron 08 Oct 2008 at 9:20 am

    This was an interesting read. I enjoyed reading what people outside our country think about Americans.

    Please know that most of what you hear about America, comes from our liberal media. Americans are NOT the way you’ve made them out to be. The propaganda you are spreading comes from a media that TRIES to scare, TRIES to convince the world that we are bad people, greedy people, fat people and people who just don’t care. The liberal media only cares about $$$$$$$ and you bought it! Our own media sold us out. For the real reasons on why our media sold us out and created lies about America, research who OWNS American media. There’s a certain group of people who have million$ of rea$on$ to $ell u$ out and if you call them out on it, there’s a backlash from these groups of people that can’t be fought because they own the media and the banks.

    You are right…there is lots of fear being spread but it’s not by American citizens, it’s by the American media. Make sure you understand that and make sure you spread the word that American citizens know this too and we are working together to overthrow the American media and the corruption in bed with the American media.

  38. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 08 Oct 2008 at 9:39 am

    Don’t worry, Not Scared, I’m well aware of how the media and those in control manipulate the American people (as they do people in every country). I thought that was clear from this article - just look at that flag graphic! - plus others that I’ve written.

    Because I try to keep my posts to around 800 words, so I don’t overwhelm readers, I’m very limited as to how much I can include in each one. I hope readers will take the time to read a number of my posts and see that many are connected and one will often expand on points raised in another.

    As far as I’m concerned, the fear was there to see from American’s themselves - it was not media people who didn’t stop to help people in need, it was the American people!

    (As for greedy and fat? Statistics on American consumption (not just of food) and obesity are there for all to see. And bad? I never said American’s were bad people. I like America; I like its people and its culture.)

    Yes, the media spreads this fear, but I think you’ll find it’s the average American who buys it, or else, how can the media survive? If no one in your country believed the media, no one would buy newspapers, tune into TV stations, listen to the radio, and all these controlling corporations would go bust. If the vast majority of Americans don’t buy this crap, how can it still exist?

    As for corporate greed and control? You obviously haven’t read many of my posts - off the top of my head, try these:

    http://www.lionsledbysheep.com/2008/08/28/snow/

    http://www.lionsledbysheep.com/2008/09/11/oil/

    http://www.lionsledbysheep.com/2008/05/01/like-christmas-day-every-day/

    Unfortunately, most of the American people, as the English do here in England, do buy the crap the media dishes out. Our only hope is to raise awareness of this, open enough eyes, and hope that people will stand up and say enough is enough. Then things might change. Sadly, that day is a long way off!

    Thanks for taking the time to contribute to the discussion.
    Steve

  39. # NOT SCAREDNo Gravataron 08 Oct 2008 at 10:13 am

    Thanks for the reply Steve, You said…”"”Yes, the media spreads this fear, but I think you’ll find it’s the average American who buys it, or else, how can the media survive?”"”

    The media survives by default. There’s an old saying….keep you friends close and your enemies closer. Just because we are buying the newspapers, doesn’t mean we are “BUYING” the newspapers.

    If there was another option, another media outlet that didn’t have an agenda, we would buy that but please name one that isn’t corrupt!?!? Believe it or not, I enjoy one of the less corrupt news outlets….The BBC. I know it’s not perfect but it’s not CNN OR FOX NEWS. It seems a little more fair and has less of an agenda.

    Have you been to http://www.prisonplanet.com ? and do you know of Alex Jones? He’s America’s biggest critic of our media and government. He’s making a name for himself and many believe he’ll be found dead within the next few years. He speaks many truths but the mainstream media calls him paranoid and crazy….check him out.

  40. # Steve N. LeeNo Gravataron 08 Oct 2008 at 12:22 pm

    You’re very welcome for the reply, Not Scared - an exchange of ideas is what we’re all here for, isn’t it?

    Yes and no, Not Scared. For example, one of my pet hates is gossip magazines. I don’t know if you have the type we have over here, but we’ve a whole bunch of crap that masquerades as, predominantly, ‘women’s interest’ magazines. What constitutes women’s intesest according to these publishers is who Paris Hilton is porking, if Britney bikini waxed this week, how much some third-rate wannabe actress spent on a new dress. And of course, which celebrity diet is *hot* this week and which of last week’s is definitely *cold*.

    I detest these damn things - just filling people’s heads with absolute garbage, making them pay for the privilege, and encouraging them to accept this ethos as ‘normal’ life and to buy, buy, buy whatever crap these celebrities are into this particular second.

    There is a choice - don’t buy it! If people didn’t, then publishers might actually produce something worthy of our attention to make money instead.

    To varying degrees, I feel pretty much the same about most media. Yes, you’re right - some are better than others. And as you’ve discovered, there’s a wealth of info - FREE - on the web. It’s up to the individual to decide where his priorities lie and if it’s worth them seeking out alternatives to the mainstream. If enough people did, the mainstream would have to change.

    I don’t get much time for surfing for fun, so I haven’t seen the website you mention, that I recall. Thanks for the link.

    Thanks for expanding on your original thoughts, Steve

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