Detroit to Downunder

Using Australia as a vantage point on what it means to be an American and what America means to those living and working beyond the borders. Yep..sort of sums this blog all up in that first sentence.

We are at a unique point in history where much appears to be on the horizon; fundamental change in world order, mother nature asserting her natural dominance and apparent displeasure; technological changes that will, in the coming decades, make possible a potential leap in evolution for humanity, and the growing sense that the world is growing smaller and smaller.

We as Americans, living in America, take for granted our position in the world. We are the most ambitious nation; indispensible and pivotal in the workings of the world, yet we live our lives only marginally aware of the world beyond our borders. I speak from experience, as my sense of place for myself and home country changed dramatically as a result of my personal geography.

Moving from America to Australia brings perspective. I now am part of a culture that knows full well that its relevance on the world stage is limited; a nation that imports far more culture than it exports; a country whose influence across the globe is primarily its sense of a good life. Aussies love their country and their lifestyle, yet they don't have a genetic predisposition in thinking it would benefit the world to spead them to those unfortunate enough to live elsewhere.

Some Aussies believe their culture embraces mediocrity, and the truly ambitious move overseas to England or the US, where the opportunities are greater. Perhaps. I believe that here there is a bell curve that clips the extreme ends off the American model. Sure, there were never any Aussies on the moon (but they did play an integral part with their Dish to communicate to the astronauts), but every resident is guaranteed not to go broke paying for health services.

To those who've never experienced it first-hand, it's kind of nice taking for granted socialized medicine.