Bush’s Trip to Japan

In his futile attempt to maintain America’s image, George Bush is doing his best to force the Japanese to buy more of our poor-quality merchandise. Why doesn’t our chief executive try to learn something from the Japanese and help our floundering economy? After all, the Japanese weren’t afraid to learn from us after Perry and MacArthur withdrew.

It’s time we start listening to others instead of assuming that America will continue to play the role of perennial teacher. The 21st Century may yet belong to Asia. The question is: Are Americans ready to settle for runner-up?

GERALD P. LUNDERVILLE

Long Beach