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I disagree with your synopsis. While Japan produces a limited number of goods (mostly manufacturing) we have all the natural resources we need, including raw materials and food. They are stuck buying everything they need to produce. We on the other hand have most of that on hand. What I am saying is that your analogy to Japan doesn't add up.

You still haven't answered my question. It sounds to me that you think we need trade deficits in order to be profitable.

While Japan produces a limited number of goods we have all the natural resources we need, including raw materials and food

I suppose I'm just a sucker for a debate, and I'm not detecting an overt troll (though you could be very good, and if so, then I'm owned), so I'll take the bait.

(1) Japan produces a limited number of goods? I mean, where does one start to respond to such a broadly incorrect statement?
(2) We have all the natural resources we need? I mean, again, where does one start to respond to such a broadly incorrect statement (hint: oil)?

Come on, admit it, I'm being trolled, right?