Having spent a great deal of time in Russia over the past six months, I can’t help but compare and contrast it with the United States. There are very clear and present economic and social differences that I find interesting, unique… and fearful.

The cultural differences are indeed unique and a pleasant experience for anybody with a sense of adventure or an urge for self-enlightenment. The different traditions, beliefs, habits, and general way of life is what makes culture so exciting! Heck, for a fraction of the cost you can get much of the same experience by traveling to different cities throughout the US which are populated and culturally represented by the majority nationality. But just like Mom’s homemade cooking, nothing quite comes close to the real thing.

But this post really isn’t about the positive differences between the United States and Russia. It isn’t about the differences at all but rather the similarities; and as a true blooded American, the sort of similarities that I’m fearful of.

Most of the similarities are subtle and still in their infancy, but I assure you, they do exist. And perhaps the worst part about the whole ordeal is that it’s happening right in-front of us and there is little being done about it. The ‘Divided States of America’ is such a culturally and emotionally diverse country that it is near impossible to get either side of the emotional and political spectrum to collaborate with one another. And everybody in the middle (the moderates) either does not care or are too afraid or docile to fight for what they believe in. I understand a lot of emotionally powerful statements were just made, so please stick with me before lighting the torches and jumping on the offensive or defensive bandwagon.

Economically, Russia is about 50 years behind the United States. Just to paint a quick picture: most families do not own a vehicle, the public transportation is beat up and run down, buses are packed shoulder to shoulder with patrons, average income is much lower, families and individuals do not dine out, far fewer personal possessions, conveniences and luxuries, and going for a walk or a good conversation is the national pastime.

Politically, Russia is about 50 years ahead of the United States. Let me rephrase that statement: politically, Russia is about 50 years ahead of the current political path of the United States.

The evidence is so painfully evident that I could make my entire case based on facts without spouting a single emotional comment. I will continue to try my best to always list the facts first and my personal opinions second. The line often gets blurred when dealing with such an emotional topic; but I assure you that with America’s current political landscape, I am neither a republican nor democrat. I support a few progressive agendas and am more than welcome to hear the thoughts and opinions of those different than my own. All in all, I would consider myself a Constitutionalist.

Back to the topic at hand: How can Russia be economically 50 years behind the United States but at the same time be politically 50 years ahead? The simplest answer would be the most obvious; that the two are directly related. I think it would be helpful if I first explained the political landscape of Russia and the direct economic results.

As you’ve probably guessed, the Russian government controls just about every major aspect of their citizens’ lives and responsibilities. The only logical explanation a government would want you to believe is that people are unable to make good decisions for themselves so the government must make them for you. To paint a picture of what I’m talking about: the banks, heating and gas, education, medical, transportation, career income, retirement, etc – are all primarily controlled by the Russian government. Entrepreneur is a word that doesn’t exist; you can hardly build your own destiny without the power of bribery or political corruption at your side. It would be an equal lie to suggest that there are absolutely no benefits to having an all knowing and controlling government take care of all the most important variables of your life. After all, you get a free education and your health care is taken care of… just to name a few. But what are you really forfeiting in exchange for such securities? To properly answer this question, we simply need to look at the United States as it is today.

The United States is in the midst of the greatest economical, political and social change that any living American has ever experienced. The oldest generation experienced the Great Depression, the Baby Boomers experienced the cultural revolution, and today’s generation is getting a full serving of all the above and more. The debate of whether the United States should remain an English speaking Christian nation, united under God is a battle already on the brink of defeat. Some would argue otherwise, but the evidence is already beyond doubt. Children in school no longer state the pledge of allegiance before the school day starts and our government is actually debating on whether or not ‘in God we trust’ should be removed from our currency. Barack Obama refused to wear a flag pin during the primary’s, and when asked why, answered that it represented “a substitute” for “true patriotism.” Heck, we can barely say ‘Merry Christmas’ anymore without fear of offending. The list of politically correct tip-toeing is virtually endless.

Americans are fighting a great national debate over the power, scope and reach of the government established by the Constitution. The debate was sparked by the current administration’s bold push for government expansion – a massive fiscal stimulus, Obamacare, financial regulation and various attempts at controlling the energy economy. This engendered a popular reaction, identified with the Tea Party but in reality far more widespread, calling for a more restrictive vision of government more consistent with the Founders’ intent (C. Krauthammer, Washington Post). But there is still a great number of Americans, perhaps still the majority vote, that believe and trust in Obama’s agenda, bigger government, and exchanging freedoms for securities.

It is in the existing administrations best interest to keep feeding and supporting the desperate and less fortunate with welfare, bridge cards, and other forms of economic support at the expense of others. As more people fall victim to the government weight to keep you down and unmotivated to get back up, you exchange your constitutional freedoms one small step at a time. They get more voters and as a result, more power. The more people the government can keep submissive and dependent, the more power they receive to take away your freedoms and power of decision.

Ask yourself the tough questions: Do I want ‘free’ healthcare, dental, education, etc? What am I willing to give up in exchange for these? Are you willing to get a free masters or doctorate degree in exchange for earning $600 a month? Are you willing to walk to work, school, grocery store, pharmacy, restaurants, café, relatives, etc – in exchange for free health care? Are you willing to have free dental in exchange for government funded retirements? Are you willing to give up your big screen TV, electronics, toys, luxuries and several conveniences for the security that the government can provide you? Are you interesting in having your children dream about living in other countries for a chance at a better life?

I can say with confidence that we still live in the greatest nation in the world. The United States is certainly past its peak greatness and by all measures, on the decline. But that is only the result of the American people allowing such atrocities to happen. It is certainly not beyond repair, though; with time, things can be reversed. Despite your political or emotional stance, you simply need to ask yourself the tough questions. What does your freedom mean to you? What are you willing to do about it?