why

were people clapping so often and indulging in standing ovations for President Obama's State of the Union address? Perhaps I'm too jaded from all those pep talks from corporate executives laced with crapspeak, loaded with words of familial encouragement in the aftermath of layoffs (oh, sorry, "reductions in force"). He trounced DADT, delivered the familiar litany of "healthcare reform" and "immigration reform." The sense of déjà vu was strong. Some people probably need and welcome this motivational stream, but I'd like to see some exhibits. I'll wait. (Someone should have put a cushion on the podium ... the thump of his hands was ominous).