As we enter 2020, it is perhaps easy to be discouraged at the manner in which our national comity appears to be unraveling, the governmental systems that have sustained us are arguably misfiring, and the world around us is seemingly fragmenting. While the problems we face need to be addressed, they pale in comparison to those that our nation has overcome in darker times. I truly believe what Ronald Reagan proclaimed: that we remain the last best hope of man on earth. The coming year provides us with a chance to make adjustments – while recognizing that no changes are sustainable that fail to take into account the rightful values of any segment of our people. 2020 will inevitably be a year of turmoil for our nation, but also one of opportunity. On a personal level, today we are honored to attend the wedding of good friends starting life anew. There is no greater expression of hope in the future than a loving couple’s exchange of wedding vows.
Happy New Year.
McCoy's Noise 
Good morning Jim,
As I’ve told you, I have enjoyed reading your commentaries, on many things and especially your political/governmental/international perspectives. I look forward to more of the same as we ring in the new year and new decade.
I am moved to respond to your observation at the bottom of your post. About the wedding you’re attending today — at this moment I myself am floating on an elevated emotional cloud, a sort of marital bliss. Not my marriage! But my daughter’s. On this past Sunday afternoon on the east side of Madison, Christine married Mickey Ramirez, her love of several years after their meeting in Chicago in 2012. Indeed as you say, there is no greater hope, or more compelling basis for optimism about life, than in marital love and commitment. I am so delighted for her and her beau.
Wishing you, Chris and your family a Happy New Year!
Dan
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