Of all people, I heard a football commentator talking about the F. Scott Fitzgerald quote saying, "there are no second acts in American lives." As a quote, frankly, this strikes me as complete crap, F. Scott Fitzgerald or not. On the contrary, these days, it is the utterly American thing to do, to "reinvent" yourself. Were it not for the second act of the American life, I know I wouldn't be where I am today, and not wishing to move further. Not necessarily because I know I should, which I do, but I want to. Sure, things are tough, but I've never been so optimistic about my future, and how far a bit more effort will get me. I want to be able to take care of business, and I know I have to, by virtue of being a husband and father, no matter what the circumstances. Honestly, to counter Mr. Fitzgerald, I would say that an American life literally comprises the second act of life, for many in the world. Don't be so gloomy as believe the words of a man who spent as much time drinking as he did writing. Scott Fitzgerald and drinking are both overrated.