And I thought the bitterness from the election was over.

Months after President Bush was elected to a second-term, criticism and disparagement have overwhelmed his administration. Recently, New York Times columnist Fred Conrad wrote that the victors of the election have managed to be on the wrong side of public opinion in every instance. Terri Schiavo, Tom DeLay, the economy and social security are only a handful of examples, he writes. President Bush’s second term success is wrapping up, so they say.

Skeptics question the president’s current capabilities as a leader. They know that social security is starting to fail, yet they criticize his plan. They criticize him over being too bold, yet not bold enough. They praise his contribution to fighting terrorism and keeping America safe, yet criticize his efforts in Iraq.

Anyone can admit that America needs a boost – our economy needs reviving and gas prices have been at an all-time high. But let’s remember that it is still early in the second term, and it is way too early to call him a lame duck. And let’s also remember that hypocrisy and finger-pointing don’t get us anywhere.

What drives this man is heart and focus in what he does. It is not wise to rule him out early – it is his nature to fight even harder when ruled out. Let’s also not forget some of his kept promises. He has signed two pieces of legislation that overhauled the nation’s bankruptcy laws and limited class-action lawsuits. In addition, the House passed an energy bill that he sought. And just this past Sunday, an industry analyst reported that the average U.S. retail gasoline price fell over the past two weeks, and predicted that it will remain stable or slip further.

Progress is being made. Constant criticism and a constant feud between Democrats and Republicans, as made very clear this past week with judicial nominations and the filibuster, don’t help. We are at war. Don’t expect the economy to skyrocket. But don’t rule out future significant changes either. As far as social security goes, something needs to be done. The system is projected to begin running a deficit in 2017 and to exhaust its reserves in 2041. Is it really the best idea to wait to make a plan, as many have been eagerly suggesting to the president?

Why not give our leader a little more faith? After all, America is supposed to be a land of hope and unity. So, buck up, America, and look at the good your country is offering you, including that from President Bush. After all, he may very well surprise you.