I know that the reputation of the USA has gotten a bit tarnished in the past few years.  Our political leaders have done some stupid things that have disappointed our international friends and have increased the discontent of our detractors.  I am not going to defend our national policies nor join in the criticism.  I just want to assure everyone around the world that the people living in the USA are still compassionate, caring and hospitable to foreign guests.

We are a nation of immigrants.  Our parents, grandparents or forefathers came from many nations.  Our society is composed of people of many races, many religions and many ethnic backgrounds.  We have learned to accept diversity.

When you come to the USA, I cannot promise you that you won't encounter a few rude people, but I can assure you that most of the US population will welcome you.  Friendship and hospitality are traits that can be readily found all across this land in every state. 

I often journey to New York City on business.  That crowded metropolis of teeming masses is noted for its assertive unfriendly inhabitants.  They walk down the sidewalks at a swift pace, speaking to no one, avoiding eye contacts and only offering curt retorts to anyone impeding their progress . 

Yet, I have seen a family of Japanese tourists, meekly intercept one of these truculent New Yorkers to ask for assistance in finding some destination. The stern visage of the New Yorker melts instantly as their concern and compassion takes over.  The stolid native may even deviate from his own destination to walk many blocks out of his way to assist the tourist family in finding the way.  This is a scene that I have seen repeated over and over again in New York City.

The Southern states are known for the polite gentility of their inhabitants.  Any and all visitors can expect to be greeted with excessive politeness and gracious hospitality.  That is the way of the South.  In the Midwest, the folks are friendly and accepting of all guests.  Friends and strangers alike are usually wecomed into the home and heart to be treated like members of the family.  On the West Coast, life and social intercource is very casual.  One can escalate from stranger to trusted friend in a matter of minutes.

If you come to visit the USA, I think you will be pleasantly suprised at how graciously you will be welcomed by the people.  I don't mean to imply that all of the government bureaucrats that you encounter in the airport will be so friendly and polite.  Nor, am I certain that all of the vendors trying to sell you tourist stuff will be so gracious.  Once you get away from the tourist traps and meet the people living in the towns and cities across the USA, you will see how wonderful they can treat a stranger from another land.