Still, besides the revelation of hypocrisy, the effect of all this has also been quite remarkable in creating a growing sense of American solidarity — precisely in terms of being so unlike those who criticize us. Has anti-anti-Americanism fueled a growing new sense of Americanism? We owe the U.N., the EU, the radical Islamic world, Mr. Mandela, the French, the Germans, and a host of others, I think, some thanks in this hour of crisis. By reminding us so often that they are not like us and often don't like us, we of all political persuasions and backgrounds finally are remembering that they were perhaps right all along — we really are a very different people.

For those so eager to bash the US, be careful what you wish for. Up to now we've been glad to help you out.