I have lived in the United States for the past 14 years. Initial adjustment was hard, as some of the customs and views were quite different from what I was accustomed. However, as time passed, I began to appreciate and embrace the differences and similarities between both countries and have come to view the United States as the great experiment. Most cultures throughout the world are represented here, of course some more than others. The challenge is how we live together in the spirit of harmony and cooperation. Many countries still have quite homogeneous populations, and are now having to deal with issues of large scale immigration, so they are now starting to deal with some of the challenges that have always faced the United States. As a very young nation, we are still working out some of our problems, we got off on the wrong foot with certain groups (African slaves, Native Americans), but hopefully as we move forward we will begin to further recognize the contributions of these groups to the building of the United States and help those that have been left behind as our country as has sped ahead.
My hopes: Increased understanding and tolerance; community and cooperation; and of course peace and love. One Love
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
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4 comments:
True that.
What was it about your trip that prompted this post?
-Annie A, Rotaractor
In response to Annie A.
There was not one particular experience that prompted me to write this blog. I have very strong feelings for the US, with all is negatives and positives and I wanted to express those feelings in a somewhat public forum. I welcome any comments, good or not so good :-)
-Monique
That's so interesting! After hearing the presentation from the Dutch GSE team, I had some very similar thoughts. I get distracted by the politics and scandalous news stories and sometimes forget about the more important themes described in your post. Reading those thoughts from another person is comforting and makes me optimistic. Thank you!
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