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Re: Europe
by Eric Laffoon on Monday 15/Mar/2004, @10:43
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This is an interesting post. It's funny how it's always "those people over there" that we suspect don't care much for us. In fact I've seen some posts from people in Europe that are not so friendly to the US. While I believe it's silly to get into a discussion about "nationalism" I think there are two points we should remember. First, it's a good thing to care about and be proud of where you live. We know the flaws of our homeland, but that does not preclude our pride in the good things about it. Second we need to remember that when it comes to what we do with software, it is not confined within any national boundry. So perhaps if there is any value in my being American it is to show that I'm not the stereotype that was just said about us by somebody. In fact when you know someone personally they are like your neighbor. I have friends all over the world. That means we respect each other and our cultures.
As far as where it is safe to program, the US was founded in the concept of freedom. Study your history of the transition of governments from royalty to elected representation starting in the 1700s. Now turn on your local news and take this test... did they tell the story at the top of the hour of how someone did something to help their fellow man, or did they lead off with the most terrible injustice and injury? If it is anything like where I live, and I'm sure it is, you would get a pretty bad picture of where you live showing up and flipping on the news... much different than walking out in the street talking with people. It is very easy to portray the negative and sensational. The point is, what you don't know is the seed of fear, because fear and suspicion is all about the unknown. It's funny how people from countries that supposedly are against you can be just like your other friends and neighbors. It really doesn't matter to me where my friends live, as long as we choose to be friends based on our common interests.
As far as being a star, I believe the term you're looking for is idolatry, something I don't want any part of. I don't even watch American Idol because I loathe the concept. That and getting my ears assaulted watching some poor chump make a fool of themself and getting insulted is not my idea of entertainment. People identify with the singer but where are the musicians? Can these people actually produce their "idols" without somebody to play the music? Perhaps it is because I found learning an instrument much more challenging than singing. Likewise our project would be pretty dead without all the talent involved.
My recognition is, in my mind, only valid in the context of promoting our project and as long as my vision proves useful in it's ongoing influence. It is a little surprising but also fun. What I really wish is that more people would get involved so I could have more software to play with. ;-) |
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