(disclaimer: I did not proof read this. sorry!)
It is interesting to hear the opinions of the United States from people who do not live there. I generally find myself in a conversation about government, economics, finance, and investment with two of my students, Peter and Johnny (twins), who were born in China, but grew up in Swaziland and South Africa. Today we were discussing the situation of the Federal Reserve and the overall impression of the government from the opinion of the average citizen.
Something that seems to be common speech in the press is that the American Empire is coming to a close. I think one needs to scrutinize this statement with more care. I would have to agree with the general idea that the influence of the United States on the global stage is on the decline, but the actual great is not. I think this is because more countries are able to join the United States on the stage. China would be one of these countries that is growing in power, but let us not get too hasty. China is growing at 7-8% annually, but you have to look at where they are coming from. The general standard of living in China cannot compare to that of the United States…not even close! Shanghai and Beijing are considered Tier 1 cities and if you have ever visited Shanghai it is definitely possible to buy in to the news that China is a world power. Well, the population of Shanghai and Beijing only represent 10% of China. So, if you are satisfied in knowing that 10% represent the other 90% then that is great! China has come a long way and it has a long way to go. It cannot replace the innovation of the United States and this is something that should bring great pride to the United States. In the same breath, I would caution for haughtiness to not overtake one’s senses. There is a great deal that the United States government and its populous can learn from China.
Also, I am not in line to agree with the anti-communist movements. Communism is not bad. It was the execution that was bad. One thing that is more appealing are the similarities between the version of government in modern China and the great dynasties of the past. I do not see much difference. There are only different faces leading under different titles.
This is only scratching the surface and I will have to organize my thoughts better. I could have a conversation for hours on all topics of China. I think my words of wisdom would be for Americans. One should not be afraid of the changes in the global environment. It is the path we have selected for ourselves, and if one does in fact want to tag China as a potential enemy then the prudent thing would be to get to know our enemy. I see many lessons to be learned on both sides. I pity the person who does not take the time to do get to know their neighbors. China cannot be ignored, nor can the other countries in our world. Different ways are acceptable. This is American culture.
Personally, as an American I feel this is a great opportunity for self-evaluation for all Americans and what we think our culture is and what we want it to be. One of the most glaring issues for me is that I do not feel that the interests of my parents’ generation are in the best for the interests of my generation. In fact, I think it is time my generation comes to power and make many changes. My generation lives in a culture that promotes education almost to an ignorant extent, yet we offer no assitance. How can education be a priority if it is the first thing to be cut from any government expense sheet? I realize social security and retirement are important to the many who are beginning to retire, but that really is not feasible. I would propose, instead, that parents work longer. If this is not possible then parents should live with their children. There is no shame in this and it is the natural cycle of things. Our parents raise us and then we care for them when they cannot be 100% on their own. I think it is ridiculous that a company can say we need a college degree and X-amount of years of experience yet they only want to pay us $40,000 per year. This may be acceptable in the middle states of the United States, but this is not possible in California. This is lunacy!
If I am going to be paying taxes then I want it to go to education. Parents need to stop relying on everyone else to raise their children and be an influential part of their child’s early life. Teachers should start their careers making $60,000 if we put as much worth in their job as many we like to think. Less lip service and more action! I agree education is important considering India and China (the largest countries in the world) are putting out more educated people that are able to do the job just as well, but cheaper. We need to stop saying it is ok for CEOs to make in excess of $13 million and post profits for shareholders, but they cannot hirer people. Why does anyone need that much money? Wall Street does not need $1 million bonuses. After all of this mess I cannot support bonuses of this magnitude, even if there isn’t this much after taxes.
Why are gay marriage, abortion, stem cell research, and immigration important during elections, but stop being issues anyone cares about in their day-to-day lives? I will tell you the secret. We live and support a bankrupt system politically and culturally. Why are we not worrying about improving our infrastructure. How can California be the largest state and have the worst infrastructure. Would you be willing to pay 40% tax if you knew that in 10 years the roads would be better in California? I know I would. Imagine subways all over Los Angeles-Orange County-Riverside-San Diego areas. I don’t agree with a train from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Las Vegas has enough money, so if they would like more then they can front the money.
Enough of my rambling. My point is that there is a lot to learn from China. We should not be scared of the rising power of China. We need to look at ourselves and decide if this is where we want to be as a culture and as a country. We need to understand why we think education is so important, but rather give money to war efforts. We need to question why we have people in power representing a generation and culture that is no longer serves the best interest of our country and the generation that is gearing to take over. I do not believe that the generation of 50 years old and above can serve in my best interest because they did not grow up in the same circumstances. I want my education to mean something. I do not want to have a $100,00 education and a $30,000 job. This will never pay off despite what people say. Children will only be more dumb if parents never teach accountability and are never accountable for their children, but place high expectations on teachers.
What does my generation want? What do I want for my generation? I live in a global world, not an American world. I have to compete with my peers who are from China, India, Germany, Russia, Brazil, Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia. I need an education system that will prepare me for this and give me the necessary support. I do not think we want huge gas guzzling cars when it costs $60 just to fill up a smaller vehicle. We want a simple life. The American style of living is too complex. It is amazing that people actually do not walk the streets where in contrast you ALWAYS see people on the street in China. I want more options for transportation. I want my fair share of a paycheck for my education and the knowledge and creative thinking I bring to a company. Why do I like green and organic? It has nothing to do with it being healthier for me. It is healthier for my environment and it is SIMPLE. Organic food does not have pesticides. I do not need crazy detergents to clean my home. I think vinegar and baking soda can do just fine. Need fragrance? Go buy lilies and you have a natural air freshener. Why cook at home? Because corporate America will not look out for out health and it is simply our responsibility. Why do I feel entitled? Because it is my right to feel entitled. If I did not want this right then I would move somewhere in Asia or Africa. Why am I entitled? Because I have ideas, thoughts, and knowledge that go beyond that of my parents generation.
There is a big world out there. I think many young Americans are missing it. You do not have to stay in the United States and be unemployed. The world is not too sure of the United States, so now is the time for our citizens to go out into the world and let everyone know who we are.
Wake up and think America!
