When you’re an optimist, you get disappointed a lot. Watching this process — with both sides pointing at each other and saying, If this doesn’t work, it’s on you — I’ve realized I was probably a naif to think these public meetings and arguments could get the Republicans and Democrats together.

On the other hand, I’m not alone — David Brooks of the New York Times saw lots of hopeful signs. I can only hope the parties will read his column today. Does Obama have another meeting in him?

Anyway, I’m not gonna change my stripes after 70 years. I still like being hopeful and positive better than cynicism and snark. I think optimists live longer, in better health.