American Exceptionalism
The newspaper USA Today predicts that American exceptionalism will become an issue in the 2012 elections. I hope not. It's a petty argument if its all about bragging rights or pride. It's theologically dangerous if it's about more than that. I would not serve in uniform if I did not believe that our constitutional government played an overall positive role in the lives of men and women, both inside and outside the United States. The American experience created a new way of being a nation - one based on ideals and aspirations rather than ethnicity and or the lust for power. The American values of human freedom and universal dignity have inspired positive change globally. American ingenuity and industry have improved the quality of life for many. American power has defended the weak and set free the oppressed. I have no use for the hateful, self-serving accusations of those who want to see America brought low. The United States, however, is not perfect. More important...