Russians and Americans

First of all I am a proud American. I love my country regardless of the recent glaring imperfections the past few White House administrations have displayed. We are not perfect, but we must improve soon to maintain what makes this country great. Because the people participate in the government I have faith that we will cause better days and glory in our accomplishments.

If I were a Russian citizen I would also be proud of the accomplishments of my nation. It is not forgotten that the alliance between Russia and the U.S. defeated the Hitler and Japan. It took our alliance to do it. All though out the Cold War we behaved as if we were enemy to each other. The fact that Communism was discarded by the will of the Russian people and the Soviet empire contracted to the original Russia only showed that capitalism was a better system. It did not defeat or humiliate the citizens of Russia, it only expanded personal opportunities for each citizen. With the appropriate praise for the U.S., CIA, and others who led to American survival and expansion it was not so much a defeat for the Russian people. It was a difficult and courageous evolution to a better system that should benefit the people of Russia.

I believe the leaders and military of both countries deserve praise for maintaining "competition" without resorting to all out war though out the Cold War. Present day, I believe that alliance between Russia and the U.S. is still the backbone of a stable world. While we may still compete, when push comes to shove, as it did in World War Two, I hope and believe our two great nations would once again stand together.

I read today that the rebel leader Doku Umarov has promised the Russian people "a year of blood". I hope the only blood lost will be his. He and terrorist leaders like Osama Bin Laden fail to understand that the people, each citizen, of nations like Russia and the U.S. can never be defeated. Our pride, our spirit, the heroic parts of each of us that has been steeped and proven in history is indomitable, and by our nature does not submit or surrender. Threats are defeated by actions. The most courageous actions in recent world history have been those of Americans, and Russians. Victory will be in the security of confident people enjoying proud lifestyles.

I am a patriotic American. I would not be ashamed to consider good Russian citizens my brothers.