George W. Bush’s inaugural address showed a man plain-spoken, secure in his faith, and confident in his ability to lead the nation. It also suggested that, as president, Bush may be capable of elevated sentiment and dignity of purpose.

What a satisfying change. Bill Clinton, the vulgar narcissist, is gone. He pathetically attempted to hog the spot-light on Inauguration Day, boasting in his first remarks as ex-president that “we did a lot of good.” The damage Clinton did — to our Constitution, to our public discourse, to the fabric of our national political life — will undoubtedly long outlive him. But perhaps the recovery will be quicker and more complete than one might have thought just a few weeks ago. We have reason to hope for the best: that Bush is capable of growing — in the real sense, not the usual Washington sense — in office.