You should read it all, though one bit stuck me - regarding the lack of gratitude shown towards the US for its historic contribution to European security, Walden has this to say:
Perhaps the US deserves much gratitude for what it's done to preserve European freedom. In practice it doesn't get it. Its influence and culture are resented...That's certainly true, though (as RP points out) there's a word for people who criticize American materialism while avidly consuming its products.
As for expecting gratitude from Europe, I think we've had all we're going to get. Reading Walden, I'm reminded of the fact that Americans like Europe a whole lot more than the Europeans like America - such relationships are bound to end in tears.
My advice? Never love someone with low self-esteem, they'll end up hating you for it.
