For a deeper perspective and greater context, here's an article by Howard Zinn, a veteran activist for progressive causes (whole article at http://www.peace.ca/ongettingalong.htm ) I find it poignant and relevant for us progressives at this juncture:

I never thought it would turn out like this. All along, I was waiting for the turning point, and knowing that it would be when my hip started to heal and I could run again. At no point did I think that it was all going to turn to shit. And yet somehow, it has.