We were a smiling nation back then during the Reagan years,
in stark contrast to the present dregs of the day
in high places.
Today in the public square, once a thriving center of activity, no tree
stands, and the square stands bare. People don't meet and mix in a happy way
with the present dregs of the day. No. One is bound to lower covered head to chest,
eyes focused on the path below to avoid the eyes on poles,
in boxes, attached to telephone wires, restaurant tables, buses, windows,
floors and walls; all monitored and used in public to search privates-
spy docs manning endoscopes.

There is no hope.