Hindsight Revisited

'They' say that hindsight is 20/20.  By which 'they' mean that events can be more clearly understood given time and distance.  Often, the implication is we will think more kindly on those past decisions, events, and actions, if we've had some time to mull them over, or if subsequent events have added context.

Something like this hindsight through rose-colored glasses is what Dick Cheney was groping for during his 'talk' on TV this morning from the American Enterprise Institute (AEI).  Unfortunately for Mr. Cheney, no amount of time, no quantity or quality of additional context, can do anything for his former actions as Vice President other than make them starker, scarier, and, well, creepier.  And give us all a profound sense of relief that they are over and he's out.

During his talk, the former Vice President had a justification for everything: the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq; the 'Patriot' Act; domestic surveillance; torture (sorry, 'enhanced interrogation'); and Guantanamo.  The only thing he didn't have an excuse for was his little hunting snafu, so perhaps hindsight, Cheney-style, is only 20/40.

To Cheney, all means were justified by the desired ends, and all those who served those ends by carrying out those means were heroes, and all who opposed them traitors.  Sentiments that, in hindsight, have powered all the horrors inflicted by man upon man throughout history.

Through his talk this morning, Dick Cheney has done us a favor.  He's given stark contrast against which to judge President Obama's actions, and he's removed forever any thoughts that hindsight might in any way improve the ugly picture of the Bush-Cheney regime.

Thanks Dick, now please shut up ...