personal incomes are still growing in France and Germany, thus sustaining consumption fairly naturally (withotu recourse to more debt).

And I continue to be gratified by this fact and continue to hope that it will continue.  It is good that at least two western countries can keep their heads above water.  One of my concerns about the mismanagement of the US economy is that it might drag everyone down with it.


"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."