The Great American Soap Opera Continues

Now Obama's campaigning gives way to governing in very challenging times. Our enemies have viewed Obama's presidency as a victory, but he's promised to stand strong against our enemies and refocus our Gulf War strategy. When tested, we must support such efforts. He's also challenged by a deepening economic crisis complicated by unprecedented national debt, growing credit-card defaults and mortgage foreclosures, and aging baby boomers who threaten to take the unfunded Medicare and Social Security entitlements into insolvency.

With a Democrat controlled Senate and Congress, he'll be expected to deliver on his promises, but the cupboard is bare. He expects "the rich" to shoulder more of the cost, but they're struggling as well. States like California who depend heavily on income tax revenue are rapidly spiraling into deeper debt. Presidents learn that unrealistic expectations can damage popularity quickly, but he's earned the opportunity to prove that Democrats can deliver.

I compliment John McCain and Sarah Palin for their spirited and principled campaign. Facing a weakened economy, an unpopular war, a tarnished Republican brand, a continuing financial crisis and biased media coverage, they delivered enough votes to win most presidential elections. For Republicans, there's still room for optimism. Election-day surveys indicate that more Americans view themselves as conservative than liberal. Unfortunately, those same polls indicate that more identify themselves as Democrats than as Republicans. The Republican brand has been tarnished, but as some leaders go to the sidelines, emerging stars like Governors Sarah Palin and Louisiana’s Bobby Jindal take the stage. They’re communicators and leaders of action who’ll have to sell a conservative vision and reearn America’s trust. Ronald Reagan wasn’t just a great communicator; he was a great educator. Republicans must reclaim that mission on the road to the mid-term elections.

Why do I remain optimistic? Our coins read, "In God We Trust." I share that belief. God's will is revealed in His way and His time—not mine! A Biblical verse written by Apostle Peter provides perspective: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." To the dismay of many secular readers, I find peace believing that God is still in control, even in the tough times. Saint Ignatius wrote: "Pray as if everything depends on God, but act as if everything depends on you." There’s much to be done together to help invent our future. Attacking each other or giving in to despair won’t help. Stay engaged. Share your opinions. Make a difference where you can. Be proud to be an American.