I lived in England for 4 years in the 70s and spoke to many people from NZ, Aust. Ireland and so on and they spoke of their systems, taxes, general feel for life, etc. When I returned to the US, I was at first elated -- all this stuff I could now have. Of course I couldn't because I hadn't made much overseas, but that's another story. I found myself missing the interactions over there. The higher level of trust and not feeling like everyone was at my back trying to overtake me - it didn't matter where I was going - they just needed to get there ahead of me. America's older view of self-sufficiency was valid 150-250 years ago. But it's morphed into this driving, obsessive, winner take all attitude about everything from buying broccoli crowns in the supermarket to the new job that 12,895 people have applied for. It's not as much fun here anymore. There's still so much to have and so much potential but right now - it's not that much fun. Stress sucks the "marrow" out of everyday joys - Yeah that was fun doing that but it cost $3478.13 to do it and now I have to payoff the credit card and …. Geesh. Thanks for this article!!