"That's what Jack Kemp's message is: Believe in yourself, America. We're great," Bob told me and about half the dining hall.

I could see the fervor came from deep within his soul, and I shuddered as I began to comprehend his message. All I had to do was believe in the power of our free society, and good things would happen.

As if he was reading my mind, Bob stopped my thoughts short. "Don't get too excited Jon." Bob warned. "There is another ingredient--hard work. The Japanese believe in themselves, but they also work hard. We've forgotten that in America.

As I pondered this new twist to the message of Kemp, I must have had a sour look on my face, because Bob felt the need to alleviate my fears.

"It's not that tough, Jon," he said, much to my relief. "Look, let me tell you another story. O.K.?"

"O.K.," I said.

"Great," Bob said. "A few years ago when the negativity of Carter and Mondale covered the nation in a great shadow of non-productivity, the great concern here and throughout the world was too little food," he exlained. "Now, you know what the problem is--the problem is too much food."

"Wow."

Bob was pleased, he was close to getting someone else to join the "Kult of Kemp." "You know, Jon, when Kemp is elected president, there'll be two VCRs in every house," he asserted.

I believe.

The name of this friend has been changed to keep shame from his mother.