In days gone by I vacationed in the US quite regularly, having relatives there I could visit who would put me up. But I haven’t been to the States in - over twenty years now I guess. Now an opportunity to go again has come up (a family wedding). I wonder how different I will find it? If at all?
I think you’ll recognize there’s been a change in the American character. The old optimism, energy, innovation and love of individual freedom seem to be fading. Those traits have been beaten down by a prolonged, steady expanion of government. In short the upbeat American spirit and its belief that all things are possible is slowly dying. Add to that a sharp decline in the moral fabric of our society and you can see which direction the country is headed.
Demographic trends have also changed the country. Many people have come here for its freedom and shot at economic success, but those are the only reason they came here. They do not share the same values of most Americans and this has certainly transformed the country’s social identity and culture.
I’m no Alexis de Tocqueville, but I have lived here long enough to see this disturbing trend. Needless to say, we have no leadership at this moment to turn the ship of state around.