We have a lot to feel good about, but I won’t be smiling just yet

DEAR Terry, I have to say I loved your piece in yesterday’s paper.

Lovely metaphors, lovely writing. I especially loved the analogy of the little boy who was upset beyond consolation at the spilt can of Coke. It was a lovely simple way to describe the loss of hope we all suffered in the past few years. And perhaps (and this is where I maybe part company with you a bit) the unreasoning nature of some of our anger and pessimism ever since.

I am that little boy (in my head anyway — I know I’m too old and too bald to fit the description exactly). But I want the Coke back in the can, and I want it back there now.