THE WORLD DOES IT AGAIN

Posted at 8:53 a.m. ET

We've commented here on the propensity of journalists to inform us of what "the world" is doing.  We now know, for example, that "the world" loves Obama.  I was not asked.  I doubt if you were either.  But "the world" apparently was.  There's a "world" out there that you and I have not been invited to join.  I may enter a discrimination suit.  Perhaps you'll join me.  One of those well-connected Democratic trial lawyers can help us.

It's been three days since Barack Obama was elected.  "The world" immediately reacted with joy.  Looking up to Heaven, everyone saw the stars and stripes.

But wait a minute.  Have you noticed something?  Have you noticed that the grand welcome lasted about a day and a half?  That's about the same time it took for the sympathy we received after 9/11 to wear off.  It's pretty apparent that "the world" has gotten used to the idea of a President Obama.  It's also apparent that...

-  not a single country has changed a single policy;

-  no problem has eased since The One was elected;

-  not too many folks are sufficiently inspired to invest more of their savings in the stock market;

-  the oceans haven't receded;

-  Al Qaeda hasn't thrown down its weapons; 

-  MSNBC hasn't grown up.

So reality is setting in.  While there's an obviously unique aspect to the Obama presidency, the problems must be address the old-fashioned way, with competence and imagination.  Those two words weren't around much during the campaign.  They're around now.

I was struck by the photos of Mr. Obama at his press conference yesterday, with his "team" behind him.  All those gray-haired white guys.  It looked like something out of...Bushdom.  I wouldn't have been shocked to see Dick Cheney walk across the stage.

The moral:  "Change we can believe in" is quickly giving way to solving real problems with real solutions, regardless of the yearnings of "the world" or even moveon.org.

When the French press becomes disillusioned, you'll know we're back to sanity.

November 8, 2008.