I think we have seen over the past few weeks that our government is not the people who make up the country. So many foreign vistors have raved about how awesome their experiences have been. If you judged America by what you saw on the news it would be the worst place on earth. If you judge it by who you interact with throughout the country its near the top.
You and I don't see eye to eye politically but we can agree on this point (probably for different reasons). The news is doom and gloom and we also have so many evil leaders who STOKE racism and hate. And the media is absolutely corrupt in this area (Always show white-on-black crime, almost NEVER show black-on-white crime, etc. I was in the media for 7 years and know this unwritten rule very well).
I know racial relations are becoming more strained in many cases - but dang... my entire life I've enjoyed being a part of, and seeing people from different races, religion and backgrounds get along, help each other, etc. Things are deteriorating because I am convinced a lot of powerful people want it to happen for a multitude of reasons.
It's a bummer.
And yet, this is STILL the strongest and greatest country on earth IMO. Lots of things to improve, but still #1 in my book. And listening to the World Cup fans from all over the planet come and
rave about our country is inspiring!