- the fact that so many of us can speak so disparagingly about this country is frightening to me.

Actually it should be encouraging. Freedom of speech is one of the principles on which this country was founded.

I do understand what you mean on one level, however, and that's that it's at least a little disturbing how people seem to speak negatively about the U.S. almost as if it were understood that this country is evil. Unchecked patriotism can lead to very unhealthy attitudes, but I still believe the U.S. is a great nation in spite of its misdeeds.

Still, at least we bash the President in the media, in our homes, and on the Internet rather than feeling we have to pick up weapons and overthrow the government. This is a testimony to how well our government actually works: those who are dissatisfied believe that that there is an avenue by which they might see the problems rectified.