The elections

Although we are not fully through the gauntlet of interesting political games, I got this sinking feeling in my stomach this afternoon as I started thinking that in less than two months the American people will have elected a new president. Less than two months! As the world looks on (and don't kid yourself people, they are looking), so much will be determined even on an international level through this.

On the one hand, why should we care what people think of Americans? On the other hand, we hold a certain level of responsibility -- first and foremost to our people -- and second to those places on the globe where our decisions influence regional societies and governments. Here in Europe recently, there has been quite a bit of talk about Americans, some positive and some not so positive.

I'm still quite undecided in all my thoughts on candidates for both major parties. And what if I just decide to vote independent? I've always felt that was throwing away a vote. Not exactly sure I want to do that either. It's tough thinking about who will be best on both a national and international level.