None of us should envy Herbert. Although he's had a larger role in the executive office than many of his lieutenant-governor predecessors, it's not the same thing as being the top executive.

Herbert will become governor during one of the state's most challenging periods, as tax revenues dwindle, jobs are lost and the economy contracts. There will be many issues and people competing for his attention.

My fervent hope is that "consistency and continuity" mean our state policy and funding will continue to look kindly upon our most vulnerable Utahns, such as the young, homeless mother I encountered on Mother's Day.

While a handout could help her address her problems for one day, she will require more intensive services and case management to transition into self-sufficiency. For that to happen, Herbert has to establish those programs as front-burner issues.

Marjorie Cortez, who has learned many lessons about the homeless from Pamela Atkinson herself, is a Deseret News editorial writer. E-mail her at marjorie@desnews.com