Herb (#4): “Im not sure the current President hasn’t had sufficient life to develop an accurate sense of self.” No reason that he would. No reason that he ever will. Narcissists focus obsessively on themselves but somehow they end up with far less, and far less useful, self-knowledge than those who look outward in order to see inward.

As for Obama needing more time to become whoever he’s going to be, I am reminded of a story attributed to Abraham Lincoln. He ordered some employee fired, and was asked “Why, Mr. President, you don’t know anything about him!” He answered, “I know that I don’t like his face.” “But, Mr. President, a man is not responsible for his face!” Lincoln asked, “How old is he?” “Forty-five, Mr. President.” “Fire him. After 40, a man is responsible for his face.”

W was not everyone’s cup of tea but at least he was an adult. The contrast is shocking.