Why New Zealanders Feel Pity and Disbelief Towards the US
Contrary to the image often portrayed in some media, New Zealanders do not constantly grapple with anger towards the United States. While some might express pity and disbelief, this does not mean they are emotionally opposed to the US. Instead, the relationship is often characterized by a mix of understanding and exasperation, particularly when it comes to the American political system.
Political System Criticism
One of the primary reasons for the nuanced relationship between New Zealand and the United States is the perceived dysfunctional nature of American politics. Both New Zealanders and many Americans share concerns about the polarization, gridlock, and inefficiency in their respective systems. However, while New Zealanders often view their own political challenges with a sense of pragmatic acceptance, the spectacle of American politics often brings about a stronger reaction of disbelief and frustration.
The Exchanging Of Barbs
Another significant factor is the exchange of barbs between the two nations. Unlike New Zealand, the United States frequently criticizes other countries, often without truly knowing the full extent and context of their situation. This has led to instances where Americans mock or insult other Commonwealth nations, including New Zealand, without understanding the complexities involved. Over time, this behavior has grown increasingly intolerable to Kiwis, leading them to not only express their disappointment but also to defend themselves.
Learning and Realization
Many New Zealanders feel that the US has much to learn about life and governance outside of its borders. Theodore Roosevelt's quote about conquering the wilderness and the primeval conditions resonates deeply in this context. Just as New Zealand must constantly contend with its natural challenges, the US too must adapt to a broader world, one that is diverse and complex. The video evidence on YouTube of American university students struggling with basic knowledge further exemplifies this gap.
A Lives in Trough Metaphor
The phrase "to be voted off your island by bunnies" humorously illustrates the feeling that New Zealand sometimes feels marginalized by the US. In essence, New Zealanders spend their time trying to navigate their unique challenges and successes, much like taming a wilderness. The frustration arises when they constantly see criticism from a source that does not fully understand their situation. This leads them to temporarily take their minds off their own struggles by lashing out at the US.
Enduring the Noise
Moreover, New Zealanders feel that the constant crowing from other nations, including the US, is not productive or beneficial. President Theodore Roosevelt's analogy of strength and essential qualities highlights the need to be genuine and embody true values. Similarly, the metaphor of the rooster struggling to fly to the top of the tallest tree and crowing loudly serves as a critique of the US's tendency to overstate its achievements and importance on the global stage. In reality, as the old bull's words suggest, true strength and success are built on solid foundations, not empty boasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Zealanders do not harbor widespread anger towards the US. Instead, they experience a complex mix of pity and disbelief, which manifest in a reluctance to criticize or ridicule the US without considering the context. However, when the criticisms are ill-informed or overly harsh, it leads to renewed efforts from New Zealanders to provide a more balanced and often bitter perspective to the world. The understanding of global challenges, much like the struggles of New Zealand itself, is key to maintaining a constructive dialogue between nations.