Nobody can predict exactly what's going to happen this year, but I have a good idea where we're headed. This year is going to be one of revitalization for the economy, which can only benefit the wholesale distribution industry.

It's an understatement to say the U.S. economy could be in better shape, even now. But you know what? I have little tolerance for anyone in business who blames this thing called the economy for everything unpleasant that happens.

We should simply refuse to be part of a "woe-is-me" kind of thinking. We should set our own agenda. We should set our own goals and our own schedule for meeting them. And we should meet them. We simply shouldn't accept the role of victim. We should develop our own economy and make it work for us.

The U.S. economy is not like the weather. We can do something about the economy — and the National Assn. of Wholesaler-Distributors is doing something. Our business philosophy can be and should be described by one of the central themes of the recent NAW Executive Summit in Washington: Don't compete — dominate.

Is that easier said than done? Of course it is, but it's also easier to do than some companies might think.

In my view, simply putting on your climbing cleats and loading up a backpack with ropes is not good enough. Simply taking that first step along the mountain trail is not good enough. Indeed, getting halfway up the mountain is not good enough.

We should be dedicated to reaching the top. Planning for less than the top is, in itself, an acknowledgment of defeat. If business leaders have that losing attitude, a good or even great national economy is not going to save them.

To use an expression that might have originated in my home state, you have to take the bull by the horns. When you see opportunity, you've got to reach out and grab it. Looking at the big picture, we in wholesale distribution made great progress in the national elections of 2002. It's clear that we're benefiting from a more pro-business mindset in Congress these days — not to mention the help we've been getting from a good friend at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. All of this is cause for optimism, but we must also capitalize on the many opportunities ahead.

NAW has endorsed the economic-growth and jobs-creation initiative announced by the president in January and has urged Congress to take quick action. Economic growth means more jobs, and growth reduces deficits caused by soft economic activity. NAW is working hard to help ensure that the president's proposals are passed, and soon.

That's because the president's plan is exactly the right plan, at the right time. His program will help everyone participate in the economic recovery we need — businesses large and small, as well as individuals.

The President is to be applauded for taking this strong and decisive initiative.