esrosedotblog

The old norm was snark from the Europeans towards Americans.

They have looked down on us for some time. This was particularly so while our economic situation was in sad shape.

Now the shoe is on the other foot.

European Economy Tries to Find Its Way

I don't much get into economics. Particularly the global kind. But I do get into how nations treat each other and am interested in national attitudes and stereotypes.

The French are old players in the drama of "better than" and this is apparent even when a waiter finds out you are an American. Your treatment changes immediately. And even if you speak flawless French, I hear, you are going to get the snot.

I used to train internationally. The French were always a problem with the Germans right after. Nothing American could be worth spending three days on learning.

I learned how to set them all on their superior asses quite quickly. The key is to never shrink from a jibe or jeer or veiled attack under an innocent sounding question.

So, it is still in me. Nice to see the tide turn some.

Of course, I do not revel in others' misery. Real people are involved here.

But economies go up and economies go down and the proud are as likely to be victimized by it as anyone else.

It is nice though to see them squirm; Angela Merkel and whoever the current French guy is particularly.

Labels: economy, europe