Obama for the Nobel Prize? Already? Granted, the Cairo speech was a huge step forward in American-Muslim relations (even if he hasn’t followed up on his promises to the Palestians, which is clearly a timing issue AND contingent on his developing relationship with Israel), and he has improved alliances abroad–with Western Europe, with Russia, even with that red-shirted Peruvian. That visit to Africa was important–if only for acknowledging the forgotten continent. But should the Nobel Peace Prize be awarded on the basis of an extraordinary short-term effort and the promise of long-term results? Isn’t that like…
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…isn’t that like winning an oscar for a lifetime achievement in film, after only directing a few great movies that people were sure to be the first in an incredible career? Maybe it’s like being given the Heisman trophy after a only a few games in your freshmen year? No, those are weak analogies. Still, it’s surprising, and I want to feel excited–and I am–but it feels a little empty-even if he’ll deserve it someday. Even if it creates the momentum the committee alluded to, momentum for a lasting peace in the Middle East. But is that even possible? Even if the politicians agree, what does that mean to the people themselves…
