easy and deeds are hard -- then i'm confident that we can move forward together. and make this country a little more perfect than it was before. now, since we're on the topic of speaking honestly with one another, i want to devote the balance of my time, the balance of my remarks to an issue that i believe will largely determine not only african-american success but the success of our nation in the 21st century. and that is whether we are offering our children the very best education possible. [ applause ] i know some argue that as we emerge from a recession, my administration should focus