So America is largely known as the innovator of many technologies. Yet, powerful people are keeping America behind on many fronts. Cell phone technology and reliance on oil are examples of this. Now that other countries like China have money and are starting to make some noise, it will be exciting to see if those in power will continue to put up these barriers or will let America compete.

In my parent's country of the Philippines, I've noticed first hand through my visits how they are very behind in many things like electricity and sewage but in other things are leapfrogging America's position. Cell phone technology in the Philippines is affordable and more advanced. You can buy very small increments of service through phone cards rather than being tied into a huge monthly bill. I can now go into by parents home town and have access to high speed internet. Commerce is booming. I no longer have to drive 1 hour to Manilla to see a first run movie (released at the same time in the US) or shop at a mall or eat at a chain restaurant. Medical care is on par with the United States. When you think of it, information is not expensive and any products or services that are largely based on availability of information can be achieved at a quality level throughout the world. It gets harder and harder for those in power to oppress.

Except for the heat and crime and political corruption, I could almost see myself living there. I believe with information advancing, crime and political corruption will one day diminish. Maybe in 10 - 15 years, my quality of life in the Philippines would be only a shade lower than living here in Conshohocken, PA. I'd gladly trade the difference for the ability to stretch my retirement dollars to my end of life. That's something I'm not so sure I'd be able to do here unless somethings change.

Anyway, I'm excited that competition is coming. Opportunities will be available for everyone and we will all together advance the quality of life for each other and share the power.