Reply #20: It does seem to be a near breakdown of government and widespread poverty

[bigtree]

that compels other countries to action. I identify with the proposition that we're a 'nation of convenience', and comfort as well. American will need to be 'uncomfortable' before they identify with any calls for a general shutdown. But, I do think such a migration to a general strike- if our political situation continues to tear at the fabric of our society so much that we can't bear any more- won't happen unless there is some broaching of it while we still feel we have other alternatives. And that's what makes us sanguine. The hope that events will turn, that some sense and order will prevail, that apathy hasn't already turned folks away from believing in even their own power to effect change. It has a tranquilizing effect. We wake up and the reality of our lives hits us, where do we find work, money, food, shelter? The elitist prattling of some privleged 'activist' has to be dismissed. But, not out of hand. Desperation produces heroic actions, Americans are no exception to this.

I'm mezmerized by hope. I don't have to settle in and accept that my government that I sponsor and tolerate is determined to be an obstacle and a danger. It may yet come to past that Americans will cast aside our hope that our representatives and leaders will realize our dreams for our lives and society and take our country back with our own hands. We are the fuel that enables these pretenders to continue in power. We have the ability to stop enabling their false reign, their manufactured military mandate. That may come to be the only comfort left us.