The Greatest Nation

Over the last year it seems as though there has been a lot of apologizing for the actions of the United States. We are told that we have been "arrogant", "made mistakes" and not treated our allies, and our enemies, with respect.

Then along comes an event that reminds us of why we we are the greatest nation in the world: the Haitian earthquake.

Within hours of the quake, the United States was mobilized. The military was on its way to help. Yes, help, not invade, not bully, but help. That is what we do.

The American people responded by donating millions of dollars. We do this in still difficult economic times, because that is what we do.

We are the world's lone superpower and we saw this week why. What other nation can, and would, mobilize the resources and compassion that the United States has this week?

On Saturday we saw another testament to the greatness of the United States: three Presidents standing shoulder to shoulder in the Rose Garden announcing further relief efforts.

I have written before about the majesty of our peaceful transfer of power ("Today is the Day", November 4, 2008 ), but Saturday's event really brings that home. In what other country would the current and two former heads of state stand together and announce a joint international relief effort?

I am sure these three do not like each other much. Remember 42's wife ran against 44. 42 defeated 43's father. 44 spent much of his campaign talking about how he would undo what 43 had done. There is a lot of history amongs this group, yet here they stood, united to help those who need it most.

We have heard a lot in the last year, much of it from the President, about how the United States needs to be more humble in the world. This week showed however why we are entitled to a little arrogance or hubris. The United States can do things no other nation can. That is not always a bad thing.