Introduction

The identity of an ex-pat is complex and dynamic tug-of-war between home and hometown.  For many, they elect fully adopt the culture, values and behavior of their new home, consciously shedding their past.  For others, clinging tightly to their upbringing enhances their uniqueness in their new world.  They reject many aspect of their new country.

I am somewhere in the middle.  I feel my Midwestern past has made me successful in life, but embracing my German lifestyle enables me to enjoy this success.

This site allows me to reflect on what America looks like from here.  It helps me understand what being an American today means.  It also lets me investigate why some things appear so inconsistent with my definition of the United States.

Some background...

I have lived in Germany more-or-less continuously since 2002.  I work internationally and I trade on my identity as an American.  It is important for me to maintain that identity, for my career certainly, but more importantly for my own self-value.  I have never considered becoming a German citizen and I doubt I ever will.

My daily life is a strange mix of both sides.  Although my wife is German and my children feel little pull toward the US, we live a very Americanized lifestyle.  I follow events in the US closely, from the local news of Kansas City, my hometown, to popular media, trends and national debates.

So, over the next weeks and months, I plan to add articles examining aspects of American today and how they appear from afar.  In some cases, I may sound out-of-date.  My memories are of a country nearly 15 years ago, and America is nothing if not dynamic.  In other cases, I may be able to add a unique perspective or context to the daily ticker of headlines.  Perhaps that adds something and others find it useful or thought-provoking.