Just do it: President's speech will be pretty, but that's not enough

You know how when a love is brand new and a relationship is just getting off the ground how your date resembles a fairy princess or a white knight mounted on a steed?

And then, after a few dates, he or she still might look good, but perhaps, that just isn't enough anymore?

You want some substance now -- something to prove that it is worth investing more time and love into the relationship.

Well, that's kind of what politicians are like.

At first they seem like they can do no wrong. And then, later, the charm offensive doesn't work anymore, and it is really about whether promises have been kept and the truth has been told.

President Barack Obama should remember that as he steps forward to give his State of the Union address tonight.

There is no question that the president is a good speaker. He will likely sound great tonight as he addresses the nation for his final State of the Union.

But sounding good won't be enough this time -- just as it wasn't for any of his predecessors.

Being a leader requires more than finding somewhere to place blame. It is about more than deciding to ignore generations of legal precedent and the Constitution to "do what you want."

It is about more than thinking you have all the answers and know better than the people who elected you.

It is about finding a way to make this country better -- without spending it into bankruptcy. It is about uniting, not dividing. It is about realizing that the title of "president" does not equate to ultimate ruler.

And to do that requires more than simply a bunch of academic theories and a crowd of people who tell you what you want to hear.

Another pretty speech is not enough.

We need leadership and action -- and perhaps a little more of the man who promised to end the gridlock and partisan bickering by creating a "can-do" culture and by fostering respect among those who disagree.

We will see if we get any of that tonight.

Published in Editorials on January 28, 2014 10:02 AM