What Would Asia Do Without America?

Three billion Asians are thanking whatever gods they worship that they won't have to answer that question — 'US is back in Asia'. "The United States is back," said Madam Secretary. "President Obama and I are giving great importance to this region... I believe strongly the United States has to be involved in this region." Four thoughts come to mind.

First, I hadn't realized we had left. American forces have been here in Korea the whole time since I arrived a dozen years ago.

Second, doesn't Madam Secretary realize that such statements are not only laughable but also deeply insulting? She's lucky Asians are known for their politeness or she would have faced some choice words.

Third, just why are we are "giving great importance to this region" and why is it that "the United States has to be involved in this region?" How about "giving great importance to" and being "involved in th[at] region" sandwiched between Canada and Mexico?

Fourth, how are is our bankrupt country supposed to finance our "return" to the region? Are we going to go into deeper debt to the Chinese and other Asians so for the privilege of being "involved" in their region?

Never misunderestimate the stupidity of the American government. (Thank you, H. L. Mencken and George W. Bush.) Perhaps we should reverse the question posed in the title: "What Would America Do Without Asia?" Get along quite well and be a more prosperous and peaceful place.