IF

Long time! How have you been? Yes, quite a tongue twister of a name we now have for the country May Pashupati Nath, Boudha Nath, Hanuman, Allah, Guru Nanak and Zarathusta all bless and protect us from ourselves and all those wo wish to do us harm.

Where I think Obama can make a difference is in terms of energy policy and to some extent foreign policy. Inspite of McCain speaking from both sides of his mouth about drilling and climate change, I am of the opinion  the Democrats are the ones who can really make some progress on this issue as they are less beholden to hydro-carbon interest groups (Obama's ethanol connections not withstanding) than the Republicans. The US might see a higher use of non-hydro carbon fuels over a ten to fifteen year period based on the policies of the next four or eight years. This in turn would impact foreign policy decisions, especially those related to oil-rich Middle East in the long run (10 -20 years).

But, yes, Bush has done so much damage that it will take some time and effort to repair. The short term will continue to be a challenge to whoever wins.

Good to see you in high spirits ... :)

Best wishes.