I am so dismayed that expensive ads on television are chipping away at health care reform from the right and the left. The last estimate was that $1.5 million dollars is being spent every day by lobbyists. I suspect the number is even higher now. 

I don't know one doctor who doesn't believe that something needs to be done to improve our health care system. We spend more money than any industrialized country and our outcomes (infant mortality rate, for example)are lousy. 

So Mr. President, here are some suggestions for getting back on track:

1.  Jump in with details. We know you are smart and a brilliant orator.  Now come down from 35,000 feet to ground level and let's talk specifics.

2. Explain that the underinsured are the real problem and that affects people who are 'happy with what they have' but haven't faced a crisis yet.

3.  Put personal responsibility front and center. Smoking and weight control need to be addressed in frank, honest terms and lead by example.

4.  Explain that fixing a patchwork quilt of medicine is not overnight and that better is a laudable goal. Chasing perfect will take our eyes off the ball. 

5. Invest in us. What could be a smarter investment than in the health and welfare of the American public? That means the $1.3 trillion over a decade is not a waste, but is putting stock in our future.

I am with you President Obama. A lot of us are. But this is a time to talk plainly.