There is no substitute for passion and enthusiasm, especially when it comes to political contests. Belief and faith must, by necessity, play a much larger role in deciding who to support in a contest like this one. What conscious and unconscious motives lie in the heart of another human being are often a mystery to even the closest family, friends and confidants.

How often have I been surprised by my own behavior? How much more difficult then is it to see into the heart of a professional politician. Make no mistake, these are professionals. Politicians frequently survive and are 'selected' on the basis of being able to keep part of their agenda secret, and well hidden.

Enthusiasm is an interesting word. The Greek word enthousiazein is to be inspired, (en+theos). Literally to be filled with the spirit of god is to be enthused. There is a fervor associated with OB that is good reason for pause. While I confess that I am not immune to the rush of adrenaline that accompanies this emotion, I trust it far less than I did as a young man and prefer to take leave of my senses by less indirect means.