Articles of Confederation

As time moves forward, the people and leaders of the United States of America must decide how they will pursue the interests of the nation. Will they try to run on their own? Will they work with international bodies to build consensus and unity in the world community? Does it depend on the particular situation? Whatever the answer to these questions, it is clear that although the United States does possess the world’s greatest military force, it is not more powerful economically or militarily than the rest of the nations of the world combined. The United States must pursue its interests with the clear understanding that it is, in many ways, but one nation in a world full of independent nations with interests and goals not unlike its own. There is no shortage of historical examples of powerful nations that have pushed around and exploited weak nations. Invariably, strong nations that have pursued such a course have overextended themselves as their enemies multiplied, ultimately leading to significant military and economic collapses.

The challenge for America’s leaders and America’s people is to remain strong and independent while being good neighbors in the world. There are many who would tear down and destroy America if they were capable of doing so. The nation was provided a devastating reminder of this reality on September 11, 2001. There are also many who will come to America’s aid in time of need, as the nation was also reminded in the weeks and months after 9/11. The United States of America stands as a unique nation blessed with unmatched economic prosperity, military might, and a remarkably stable constitutional government. Maintaining this nation’s status as one of the most fortunate in the world is likely to require at least as much humility and generosity as a willingness to use its assets to pursue its own interests. It is not easy to strike such a balance, but one indispensable ingredient in the effort to do so is frequent participation and input from well-informed citizens.