Our take is really cautious optimism, the business is really building momentum. We're still encouraged by the U.S. revenue outlook.

There's optimism about earnings, the fundamentals continue to look good and hiring seems to be picking up. The geopolitical situation is the only thing I can see that could be a real negative. Depending on what happens in Iraq, Bush's credibility could be in question.

I trust deeply that my mild character and optimism will be a stronger weapon than blows.

When you stop expecting people to be perfect, you like them for who they are. And when you stop expecting material possessions to complete you, you'd be surprised how much pleasure you get from material possessions. And when you stop expecting God to end all your troubles, you'd be surprised how much you like spending time with God.

Several companies that pioneered the free services trend have realized this is not the optimal business model, and are modifying their strategies accordingly.

When you follow the demographic trends, there was a lot of business formation back in the middle-1940s continuing through the 1970s. Now transactions are being driven by ownership transitions or estate planning.