Yesterday, in an event which should have happened years ago, the United States and Cuba reopened shuttered embassies, which were closed over 55 years ago.
On March 18, 2013, I wrote a commentary called Cuba, Why? where I discussed the reasons I felt were necessary for our two countries to normalize relations. In addition, I made the point that THIS could be President Obama's legacy, his crowning achievement for his foreign policy.
Those of you who have followed me for over the last two years know I am NOT a fan of this President. But I am also a fair guy, and on very rare occasions, I have given this man credit for something I felt was to the benefit of this country.
This is one of those occasions.
It took 10 intervening Presidents, beginning with Eisenhower who broke diplomatic relations with Cuba, until yesterday for the keys to unlock the doors. I am sure the cobwebs and the dust will have to be swept away and I am sure it will take some time.
Keep in mind, we ended the war in Vietnam in 1975 and by July, 1995, we had re-established relations with that country. We fought against the People's Republic of China from 1950 until 1953 and within 19 years, only Nixon could go to China.
So, finally, with a country we never technically were at war and who we shunned for over five decades, we finally swallowed hard and shook hands with the Castro brothers in Washington and in Havana. The trip was 90 miles and took longer than this President has been alive.
So, congratulations are to be extended to President Obama for this event. Ultimately, it is better we made peace now, than try after the brothers die. It may not, would not happen. At least, not this peacefully.
I will give him a 48 hour reprieve to my insistent criticism, a honeymoon if you will. I am sure he will do something to tick me off again. You can be sure of it.
But for today, congratulations for acting Presidential and for finally finding your legacy.
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