Perhaps Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert could lead the effort to bring politics and campaigning into an atmosphere of disagreement without having to be disagreeable in the process.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have heard some of the most amazing stories of people overcoming racism and abuse in this country, and of people who continue to live under the stain of unbridled hatred.

As I was flying back from a week on the road complete with late flights, weather and mechanical delays, grumpy people, and various other bumps in the road, I found myself experiencing a profound state of gratitude.

Have you ever really, really wanted something, focused hard on getting it, wound up getting it and then wondered why you ever wanted it in the first place? If so, my suggestion would be to consider what matters most to you.

If you only had that one remaining year, would you hope to spend more time at the office? Would enriching the financial bank account be your focus? Or would you be seeking something more qualitative in your life?