Like life, we are born, we live, and we die. Barney Frank is retiring from Congress. He will be remembered as a liberal, and also as a openly gay man. He has served his country with honor.

He is also retiring because he knows that he has a little chance to be reelected.  Quitting before a big loss is certainly a better strategy for Democrats. In the eyes of Americans, Democrats have failed to deliver their campaign promises. As the Bateke of Congo say, “It is better to leave things before things leave you.”