Quote:
Originally posted by bell
we will listen to all opinions but chances are we've heard it all before........
the earth is our chess board..............
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I've been trying real hard to resisit getting involved here but....
Bell - firstly, mate...I respect you for the Porsche man you are. You have helped me in the past and I appreciate your giving in this regard. I am NOT anti-American or name calling you but...
Your comments above are exactly what I think rubs other nationalities the wrong way....'we've heard it all before...' is arrogance and ignorance that cannot be argued. Anyone who truely holds this belief cannot be involved in an open discussion because their minds are closed......you might be listening but are you hearing......
Your comment '....the earth is our chess board...' is likewise that belief that every other country (nationality) is merely your toy to played until won. In chess you manipulate the pieces (countries) until you have won, disregard an dispose the opposition, for every move they make, you counter. (Remember I quoting you, and your thoughts, not what I think America or Americans do necessarily)
Life should not be a giant chess game IMO...its about negotiation and respect for other points of view.
Now don't get me wrong...I do believe the war was the only outcome, because the American Govt. gave all they could to Sadam in negotiation but wholelistically (sp) I think many Americans do give off this attitude of its our world, we know it all, been there done that etc.... And again don't get me wrong, I tend to admire that in a way (I wish Australians were more confident of their own abilities, remember we knock ourselves more than anyone else!) but I think you have to achnowledge where the frustration comes from in other countries towards Americans when they present themselves so outrightly.
I guess the best way I can liken this is to 'that' person at work...you know the one that gets on everyones nerves but seems to be vital to the system anyway and without 'that' person, maybe things wouldn't get done. I suspect this is what America is..tolerated for its brashness (maybe even loved at times) but nevertheless incredibly frustrating......
Hating America or Americans is not on most peoples agendas I believe.
I hope I have put this into some perspective without shutting down our ability to continue to talk on the Technical Board.
Cheers
Mark