[Azred]

Well, I finally managed to cause a little controversy. [img]graemlins/laugh3.gif[/img]

I don't disagree that my viewpoint implies arrogance, because it is arrogant. [img]graemlins/saywhat.gif[/img] Yes, I do believe that the American way is the best way, but because I am a realist I know that it is not the only way. Many countries enjoy freedom, and why shouldn't they?
However, one must not make the mistake of thinking that I would like to force the "American way" onto anyone; I would never presume to be that arrogant. What good is a life of freedom if it is forced onto you?

Now allow me to make one more statement that probably won't win me any friends (and apologies to Timber, who did actually side with me (will wonders never cease? [img]graemlins/beigesmilewinkgrin.gif[/img] )). I don't care if other nations or people choose not to adopt an American lifestyle, because I am not out to make converts. If someone decides to make a choice with which I may not totally agree, then that is their business and not mine. To each their own, I always say.

So yes, Melusine, there are many paths yet only one truth. [img]graemlins/petard.gif[/img]

Originally posted by Donut: No offence Azred but statements like this are the reason why Americans have a reputation for arrogance. What is strange is that you have no idea of what others feel is important in life.

Of course I don't--I am not someone else because I am me. [img]graemlins/petard.gif[/img] And yes, those sorts of statements do cause the reputation, as I stated above. Fortunately, I never claim to be perfect.
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No, Timber, I don't like to split hairs--I like rabbits! Azred nervously looks around, hoping Charean heard him. [img]graemlins/laugh3.gif[/img]

Originally posted by Animal: Just because you think it's positive, you asume that everyone else should and therein lies the major problem. As strange as it sounds, maybe some people don't want the American way of life.

Well, I don't assume that other people think like me; I don't like being an ass. [img]graemlins/laugh3.gif[/img] Heaven forbid that everyone think like me! [img]graemlins/erm.gif[/img] *shudder* Scary thought.
That is why I say that everyone should choose for themselves, but that doesn't mean that I necessarily understand their choice.