Episode 73: The 2016 State of the Union

To imitate the hatred and violence of tyrants and murderers is the best way to take their place.
— Pope Francis to Pres. Barrack Obama
That’s the America I know. That’s the country we love. Clear-eyed. Big-hearted. Undaunted by challenge. Optimistic that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word. That’s what makes me so hopeful about our future. I believe in change because I believe in you, the American people.
— Pres. Barrack Obama

A country, like any larger system, group or society, should take the time to reflect on its growth, progress and flaws every so often. That is one of the principles behind the State of The Union Address. The American people (like those watching elsewhere) hear about the status of the country from the standing President. Our conversation this week focuses on the tone President Obama took, the attention he gave to certain issues, those he declined to discuss and the values behind his speech. It should be noted that we do not comment from a place of political expertise but rather social observation.