David,

The unhappiness in America is concerning. Loneliness and insecurity make people search for saviors and villains. Donald Trump and Fox feed on this, but inadequate presidential leadership has failed to offer Americans aspirations and an appealing future.

Americans benefit by switching personal interests to those of others -- a service mentality (not to be confused with subservience). The U.S. Military and many businesses are successful in this.

Service in America is mixed. It is expensive and poor in areas with little competition, such as cable companies, which have regional monopolies. Dealing with them proves a hassle.

On the other hand, Amazon offers excellent service and has lifted retailers to their level to compete. Starbucks offers excellent coffee nationwide -- I recall the coffee in NYC diners turning grey when milk was added (essential to making it drinkable).

Where would we be without Apple iPhones and laptops? Their ease and availability are part of service.

Tesla made switching to EVs sexy and was instrumental in moving America toward a green economy.

Netflix and others provide excellent streamed entertainment.

Can service be improved? Sure, but it will likely move into the products because human hands-on is increasingly expensive.

Best for 2025.