At this point, many people have an inflated notion of what Obama can accomplish as president, and his aides should endeavor to tamp down those high expectations. I even heard a news report (I wish I could provide a link, but I think it was an NPR segment) about how many people in Kenya think that an Obama win will solve their country’s problems.

Regardless of who is president, and however much they are actually able to transcend traditional politics, our legislative process will remain stubbornly resistant to change. Of course that’s both the strength and weakness of our system of government. Walking on water and/or turning water into wine may in fact prove easier than bringing about the progressive change that Obama has promised.

I confess I was initially turned off by the Obama craze; it seemed like a sort of cult. Looking at the badge on the left of this post, you may think that I’ve had a drink of the Kool Aid. (Perhaps I took a small sip.)

Obama is very human, and is unlikely to mount a full-scale hope revolution. That said, I like the substance of his policies and find his even-keeled demeanor refreshing.

I don’t think Obama thinks he is the Messiah, though he doesn’t seem to discourage others from suggesting such things. All Americans amenable to democracy, though, should be concerned if the Messiah phenomenon continues to grow, especially Obama supporters. If he continues to be cast as the Light-bearer then it is only a matter of time before he comes to be seen as the Great Satan. That switch will most likely happen mid-March after he is inaugurated.