Mark Steyn: Thanks for America

...I find it sweetly touching that in America even political radicalism has to be framed as an appeal to constitutional tradition from the powdered-wig era.

In Europe, by contrast, one reason why there's no politically significant pro-life movement is because, in a world where constitutions have the life expectancy of an Oldsmobile, great questions are just seen as part of the general tide, the way things are going, no sense trying to fight it. And, by the time you realize you have to, the tide's usually up to your neck...

If America were to follow the Europeans and maintain only shriveled attenuated residual military capacity, the world would very quickly be nastier and bloodier, and far more unstable. It's not just Americans and Iraqis and Afghans who owe a debt of thanks to the U.S. soldier but all the Europeans grown plump and prosperous in a globalized economy guaranteed by the most benign hegemon in history.

While I agree with Steyn, I can't help but wonder how we'd react if Europe were to sincerely thank America. I don't think we would know how to accept it other than awkwardly. Sure, we'd say you're welcome and keep on doing what America does. But then again, take a look at the coverage on Sarkosy's speech to Congress, a great big Thank You America, and relatively few news organizations highlighted it, let alone offered to say You're Welcome.

I will say that America likes it that way, not so much that we want it that way, but given the fact that things need done, we prefer to do it our way. And the Europeans, although often protesting from the comfort of their home, are all too happy to let us do it our way and naturally, let us shoulder most of the cost.

Update: More Steyn; on immigration:

In other Daily Mail immigration news:

A British woman planning to start a new life with her husband in New Zealand has been banned from entering the country - because she is too fat.

The argument here is the usual one that, because of the costs to the taxpayer, a socialized health care regime has the right tor regulate your lifestyle in all particulars. There is nothing that is not potentially the government's business.

And those on the left said we were being paranoid about the government controlling our lives through socialized healthcare. Tell that to the fat lady.