Losing is difficult. Plus, the minority party holds a very important role in our government. In the final analysis, the unpredictability of the election process should keep both winners and losers quite humble. The next election is just around the corner. Second, guard what you say, especially on television.
Words have impact, and that impact is amplified under the bright lights of television.
Third, find excuses to meet across partisan lines at your favorite eatery, far from the bright lights. I was encouraged to hear that Speaker Dennis Hastert and Minority Leader Richard Gephardt met privately behind closed doors shortly after Election Day. It was a first, small step, but a good step. But let's not end there. Perhaps that same sense of congeniality could extend throughout Congress, even to staffers.