Personally, I’m mixed on whether or not 2008 will prove to be better or worse than 2007. On the plus side, 2008 should guarantee the end of the disastrous Bush era, a time of division, severe partisanship and insecurity made worse by the frequent fear-mongering of Cheney and the leftover neocons, who have managed to isolate the United States from many of its longtime friends.

On the other hand, depending who ends up winning the November election, 2008 could become the beginning salvo in another disheartening run of government. And there’s little to believe that 2008 will bring about a more effective Congress, especially when one considers that its current leaders will still be in charge.

There’s also the possibility of a recession, or at least a real slowdown in the economy, which might make some of us with 401(k) plan accounts long for portions of 2007. And 2008 will also present the real possibility of a return to Soviet style belligerence as Vladimir Putin moves Russia further away from the democratic reforms of his predecessors.

Not surprisingly, despite the many dangers most Americans, owing in part to the inherent optimism of the human spirit, think 2008 will be an improvement over last year, though the percentages vary according to some not so surprising parameters.

Where do you come down on the question?

For a look at how other Americans feel about it, follow the link below.

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