We are witnessing theater. A speech really is just words, no matter how well delivered. It does, however, lay out a standard for future judgment and evaluation. He says he wants to bridge divides - let's hold him to it.
Obama's speech made clear that support for means to "reducing unintended pregnancies" is crucial to his program. This usually translates into tax-supported contraceptive availability, morally indifferent sexuality education and lots of dollars for Planned Parenthood and the like. That's fine with some, but just so you know.
Obama - and Jenkins - both emphasized dialogue. Obama said, "But surely we can do so without reducing those with differing views to caricature.
Open hearts. Open minds. Fair-minded words." I agree. And when those supporting Obama and Obama at Notre Dame stop referring to those standing in opposition as "GOP hacks," "ultraconservative minority" and "Catholic Sharia" - and actually engaging the arguments instead - we know we're getting somewhere. 
clipped from: blog.beliefnet.com