This was a reply I wrote to the daily "AMERICA SUX OMFG" thread, which got locked right before I finished my carefully thought out and awesome reply. I couldn't let it go to waste so I'm putting it here now. It's in response to those who are all "YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO POINT OUT FLAWS GO LIVE IN IRAQ".

America was founded on the principles of freedom of expression. Do you think the founding fathers would enjoy you people and your constant "LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT"? Don't you think the same thing was said to blacks and women who wanted to vote? Sure they couldn't vote but they lived a much better life than others, right? So why do we look back and feel sorry for them? Why did we let them vote at all? It's because people were vocal about the problems in the country and that's how we figured out how to fix them. Without people being vocal about problems in the system, this entire damn country wouldn't exist, because they led to the Revolution. I'm sure the British said "Shut up, would you rather be in Africa?".

Do you think obesity isn't a problem? Do you think the low average intelligence and bigotry isn't a problem? Do you think people constantly shouting "Suck America's dick or gtfo" isn't a problem? Sure it's dumb of OP to act like these are conditions of every single American aside from himself, but he's still making valid points. But you don't think he should be allowed to do that? Because a little thing called the Constitution says he can. The reason this country is better than many others is becausewe can complain. That's how we've fine-tuned it thus far, and that's how we'll continue to fine-tune it in the years to come.

As for "pride in your country", it's ridiculous. Being proud because you happened to be born in a nice place, completely based on luck, and one that you didn't have shit to do with the formation one. That's arrogance, and it's just rubbing it in the faces of those who aren't as lucky. Don't be proud of the country. Be proud of the improvements you make to the country, whether it's leading a revolution or just as simple as voting.

<mockery>In conclusion, quite complaining about complaints. There are complaints in every country. You have it good if all you have to deal with is complaints. </mockery>