Disarming forces

As El Presidente Hopey McChangerson leaves town for an overseas trip for some purpose unclear to me, I find myself reflecting on an entire planet full of recently-improving attitudes about the U.S.

During the Bush administration, even our allies overseas began to see the United States as some dark and vaguely-threatening violent force - one to fret about, not be reasoned with. Fast forward almost a year into the Obama administration, and things are better.

An act of war has always been, and will always be, nothing more than the result of a failed diplomacy. As long as we remain in a state of war, we continue to highlight our failures as a nation, and as a planet. But at the same time, while we still have a long, long way to go, we're coming around, so our allies' comfort level grows that the U.S. will once again evolve into a voice for positive change, instead of a force which bullies, frightens, and destabilizes.

If only there was some international recognition - some prize, if you will - which could appropriately mark this crucial course change, one which backs the whole planet off the brink. But alas, I suppose there's not such a thing. Drats.

Meanwhile, I'm leaving town for the weekend as well. For the record, this is not where I'm going.