I don't think Americans are particularly good at raising children. We spoil them, so they whine too much.
European parents I've observed do a better job of putting children into the context of their lives, rather than our propensity to let our kids be our lives.
Still, watching Cam Newton and his Carolina Panthers teammates seek out kids in the stands today and present them with footballs after they score touchdowns reinforced something I've thought for awhile: If there's anything America stands for, it's making kids happy.
Santa excess. Trips to Disneyland. Lavish birthday parties. Trophies for everyone. And most especially, the most American group of all, something no other country would think of, the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
We can't cure some diseases, but at least we can make some kids happy for a little while.
Or, like the little boy and little girl at the Panthers' game today, they can get a memory and a souvenir that will last for the rest of their lives.
And there's nothing wrong with that.
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