I also thought it a good speech. It was primarily optimistic and challenged leaders to work together in solving the massive problems facing the country and the world. It was certainly in some respects an attempt to bring legislators together. Obama is not a dictator or king with absolute power. To successfully address the nation's problems he has to work with Congress. What I saw and heard was a sincere attempt to encourage the populace to believe their government would address troubling issues and an overture to legislators to put aside partisanship and join together in finding solutions. I was left with the impression that there is presently someone in the White House who is concerned about the quality of life of common citizens.

I did particularly enjoy such moments as Obama's confrontation of the robed creatures perched like vultures near the podium. I will be glad when the military is removed from Afghanistan but the USA has some responsibility to the people of that country to not leave conditions worse than we found them. As for fossil fuels a diminishing dependence is essential but we are several generations from reaching that goal. Responsible extraction and use is essential now.