George Bush’s presidency was defined and dominated by the image of jets skimming low over Manhattan, slamming into the World Trade Center. Yesterday, his farewell address was overshadowed by the image of a jet resting in the Hudson River, all aboard alive.

Might the miracle on the Hudson be a metaphor for new hope in America?

The old image led to years of war, division and frustration. Now we have a new template:

• A calm pilot skillfully bringing his plane to an improbable soft landing
  
• A trained crew and selfless passengers sacrificing and working together to save each other
  
• Ferryboat pilots, the Coast Guard and emergency personnel responding with courage and competence.

We can hope this is an omen for better days ahead.

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