Pride in one’s nation is a good thing. But, let’s face it. The world’s economy operates as one interwoven body. Our stores are full of items that are built in and represent virtually any nation on earth. Clothing, automobiles, auto parts, appliances, computers, TVs, phones … all show the label proving we are a worldwide economy. Food is grown, marketed, and sold which may be marginally “local” only because some of it requires quick shipment and sales before it spoils. Canned, frozen items, and many fruits may originate anywhere.
Shouting “USA, USA” may be great for a sporting event. “Make America Great Again” may sound like a nice slogan, but it means nothing if what its purveyors espouse is isolationism. The genie is out of the bottle. There is no turning back. The competition is fierce. Build a better product. The pride comes from producing products that last, or are more beautiful, or taste better, that work better, that solve a problem, and are innovative.
Build bridges of understanding between nations. Travel. Share in education and research. Share the arts. Learn languages, for nothing isolates or creates suspicion like being “left out” of the conversation.
