No doubt the sycophantic media will try to help Obama to, in the words of Chris Matthews, "make this thing work." (Funny, I don't remember them affording that same support to President Bush.) But sooner or later the public will expect results - falling unemployment, rising stock prices, declining federal deficits and, oh yes, tax cuts for 95% of us.

Had John McCain won, he would have been saddled with a recalcitrant Congress, a media eagerly anticipating his first misstep, and the incessant hatefulness of the far left. Moreover, Republicans would likely be dissatisfied with McCain almost as often as not.

Which brings us to how conservatives and Republicans should treat President-elect Obama.

The hate and scorn heaped on George W. Bush by many who disagree with his politics is disgraceful: a movie fascinates about his assassination, as did Gov. Steve Beshear (D-Ky.); an entire cottage industry likens him to a chimp; and countless conspiracists "knew" that he would declare martial law to pre-empt the election.

By most accounts of those who actually know him, President Bush is a fundamentally decent person who has the courage to stand by his convictions and the humility to recognize that his best often won't be good enough.

I truly hope that in four years, we can say the same about Barack Obama and that he conducts himself with dignity. Conservatives will have ample opportunity to criticize his policies, but perhaps there will be times - e.g., if he makes good on his commitment redouble our efforts in Afghanistan - when we can show respect and support rather than opposition for opposition's sake.

Most importantly, all Americans should resolve to keep our country, our leaders and, especially, the president-elect and his family in our prayers.