Perceptions on a Nation's greatness.

If a country has to exhibit it's greatness, then how does one empathize with the perception of the greatness? If greatness can be perceived, and not perceived, then it is not the consideration of the perceived greatness, but the consideration of the perception. If perceptions of greatness change, then perhaps, perceptions are moving. In an environment, where greatness is extolled, there must be an understanding, of the greatness which is expressed. I find it preferable, not to understand.