That’s right, there’s now an organisation called Business for Diplomatic Action whose goal it is to “see the day when America is once again admired as a global leader and respected as a courier of progress and prosperity for all people” – admittedly a big goal considering that much of the world’s poverty and chaos only exists becuase of failed self-centered America-centric foreign policies by the US government.
Amongst the focuses of the organisation are attempts to dispel the stereotypical view of foreigners that Americans are (and I quote) : “arrogant, loud and unwilling to listen, and a threat to their national cultures”.
I believe that’s a bit harsh : not all Americans are loud and obnoxious, although you will find a fair share of them backpacking around Europe and Australia… and you probably don’t have to look hard. Just a few quick tips from me: we’re not blind nor deaf nor thick – you don’t have to glow, shout, or be blunt. We may speak with funny accents but heck so do you, so get over it. And finally, yes, some people have two taps – now for crying out loud it’s not the end of the world. Things may be done differently abroad and that doesn’t make you superior.
If you can handle that then you’re doing good. Now just remember to bring wads of cash, and spend it on our economies.
