Exceptionalism

As much as I am embarrassed, shocked, roiled and in every other imaginable way turned off by the presidency of Trump, the economic disputes with China are a fascinating and courageous effort of regaining fairness.

They are less about make America great again and more like stop China from stealing. No other country in modern history has so consistently relied on theft and deceit to promote its economy.

The Chinese industrial complex is the epitome of piracy on land. I am talking about transfer of intellectual property that has resulted in decades now of trade deficits. Even the trade deficits are bearable; America can take it. But to steal our ingenuity, that which is at the very core of our national, feels like a personal attack.

And to tell the truth you are attacking my neighbor, my friend, my classmates and even my family. I wont let you.

In a weird manner the American people as a whole remind me of the Jewish people. No not physically, but by the character of soul. Always resilient, smart and resourceful you cannot eliminate the American. Down for the count it seems, and he rises and wins. I sometimes wonder in amazement at the consistent ingenuity and the spirit of self-preservation.

And this is the one reason as well, that a Donald presidency can never turn out in utter disaster. I don’t know how we got him, it’s really befuddling, but as Dan Coates famously said “you will disappear in the dustbin of history” and America will great despite you.

OK, now back to this Jewish connection. Perhaps it’s because I am a member of both groups, but the similarity of in spirit and resourcefulness is inescapable in comparison.

So take pride in exceptionalism, be proud as Jew, and watch the rest of the world pass by.