[Michael81Dus]

Ping

[ex-snook]

Germany just bought most of the space in the new Comcast building in Philadelphia. Somebody is making money there.

[A message]

I am saving to vacation someday in Germany and just not visit due to business.

I like the people,language, food and culture.

I'm glad Chancellor Merkel is having an effect.

[Sometimes A River]

This is a good thing.

With Muslims threatening to take over "Old Europe," it would be wise for these Europeans to get a little nationalistic.

[Drango]

“We’re not the bottom of the heap any more and it feels good,”

Germany has done squat to improve. It's just that Italy and France su(k worse.

[NonValueAdded]

Good ... and this time let them have France.

[hinckley buzzard]

The football World Cup, which takes place in Germany this summer, is the focal point of the country’s rejuvenation, the moment when rising national self-esteem merges with a cash bonanza and a quiet optimism.

Sounds just like the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The 'coming out' party of das Volk.

[NotJustAnotherPrettyFace]

the Americans have discovered German modern art as a tax write-off

????

And this would be because... (lemme guess) it's so bad that Americans can take it as a LOSS?!

[SelectiveJNJ]

"A German Pope and a German World Cup win, muses the bestselling psychotherapist Stefan Grünewald, would signal the rebirth of national self-confidence."

What will Stefan say is the signal to the German people when the World Cup Final is Brazil vs USA.

[xarmydog]

After several major computer crashes which left me without any previous addresses,I am glad to see your post!I would like to start by saying thank you for the medals you sent me.I was very proud to receive them,and it just so happened,I got them the day the Olympic medal count was announced!I felt like I had won one.I am very proud of my country,and was naturally disappointed we did not take more than your country,but your country earned them.As we sat around the house,people who were watching,started complaining and I was stunned at how misinformed they were.I informed them that Germany was about the size of Oregon and things became quiet.They could not believe it.The bureaucratic nightmare trying to get replacement medals was to much,and you accomplished it in record fashion!They are proudly displayed in my gun cabinet.After serving three years in your country,I remained a staunch defender against many who would be quick to write your country off.The news today that your country is turning around is music to my ears.I served during the mid 70s and enjoyed it very much.I rarely witnessed any animosity from the German people,who many went out of their way to be hospitable.That is why I found it hard to believe things could have degraded to the extent that was portrayed in the media,who are friends to no one, I might add.You made a comment to me, which will forever be remembered.We are all brothers in arms and we are still Allies.As soldiers,and not politicians,we do what is required of us,regardless of our own opinions.I can not express my gratitude enough to you.I only wish I could return the favor in kind.As unknown as we are,you have made a friend for life.Again,thank you,and I wish for better things to come for your country.I have read on this post that some Freepers are coming to visit.I believe they will be surprised,and I am sure they will enjoy their stay.They will get a sample of real beer and a real bakery!Regards,xarmydog.

[AmishDude]

I have a conjecture that the presence of the EU and freer trade within Europe is putting a great deal of pressure now on poor economies to perform well. As France is collapsing and Germany makes modest reforms, capital flows to Germany.

I guess the invisible hand is going to slap a lot of European politicians across the face.

[xarmydog]

I would also like to add,dont be offended by the negative comments.I would guess they come from posters who have never set foot in your country.There used to be a saying,believe half of what you hear,and all of what you see.As I got older,I realized it should be,believe nothing that you hear,and half of what you see.

[Tribune7]

Hope it's true.

[hosepipe]

BUT have they learned Socialism is Slavery by Giverment yet?..

[Malesherbes]

Good. As Germany goes, so goes the European Union. Angela Merkel is a very smart woman, and I hope she can do for Germany what Thatcher did for Britain. France and Italy right now need a Merkel.

[Katya]

S Michael, is it safe to come back and visit the relatives, or will I still hear an earful of bitching about America?

[Conservative4Ever]

Somehow I am reminded of the opening scenes in The Full Monty showing Sheffield, England as 'a city on the move.'

[hershey]

Maybe that 'feel good' ad campaign of Germany's a few weeks ago worked. Excellent.