I don't get the connection, Doug. Today's Doonesbury cartoon was just sort of teasing Obama about using 'change' in every statement. Not even a real strong tease.

What happens in the mind to change 'overwhelming approval' and 'welcoming appreciation' to a loaded term like 'fawning'?

Obama was pretty well-received and his basic message admired in most of the places he visited. He is not president yet, and it would not be prudent to make serious & detailed policy plans & promises unless & until he DOES win. Therefore, simply suggesting a strong message of hope & **change** to other countries was prudent. Remember...McCain was suggesting that he NEEDED to go see places and learn and talk to them if he was to be a serious candidate. So...he did.

Gee, Senator McCain....you forgot to mention he was to do a mediocre job of it!