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America is a peaceful country in many respects because we embrace capitalism and our own coffee cup. It’s our, “What’s in it for me mentality,” that keeps us out of tribal warfare amongst each other. I’m not suggesting that the United States doesn’t engage in battle with other countries, but within our ranks, we are inherently self-centered and I think in many ways this is a good thing.
The Price of Gas
Our main concern is not with the nationality of the gas station owner, but with the price of gas at the station. Is it lower than the guy down the street? If I buy a cup of coffee, I want to know that it tastes good and that I am getting a good price. We, as Americans also want good service. It doesn’t matter where the waiter or waitress is from, or what color their skin is, as long as the food is hot, it comes as ordered and quickly.
Sales
I look for sales, like the next person, especially in this economy. That seems to unify us all. I’m not overly concerned, though maybe I should be, with what is happening half way around the world. I want to get the most competitive rate on my cell phone bill.
No More TV
I just cancelled my cable television and landline to save money and my Aunt Bailey was incredulous. What would I do without television and CNN? Somehow, I have survived. I still know what is happening in the world, but honestly, my life is more peaceful on the days that I don’t check the latest news updates on the Internet.
A Good American
Perhaps I am sticking my head in the sand, but I think I am a good American. I want to live my life in peace: here, in my home, which is not a war torn country. I leave the big stuff to the President and his people. I feel somewhat powerless to change the world, but I know that I can influence my community by being a part of it.
Relationships
If participating in the day-to-day commerce of my neighborhood doesn’t seem like community building, consider the following relationships.When I need a piece of jewelry repaired, I go to Jessica’s jewelry and we know each other by name. My tailor is named Nuri and he’s from Turkey. He and his wife, Jenny, know me by name too. At Christmas time we exchange gifts. The same is true for my cobbler, my banker, the postman, the Thai takeout place around the way and the supermercado downstairs. I know that I am safe, because I know the neighbors in my community. I would help them if they were in need and they would help me.
Capitalism & Community
America is built on capitalism, but it is also built on community. It may be one coffee cup at a time perhaps, but still we are a diverse community, that usually, peacefully shares the same principles and ethics. This is often a result of the fact that we are not still living in the ethos of biblical times of eye for an eye, but with the idea that a dollar buys what it buys and the weather is always a safe bet for conversation.
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