When the mechanic says the car will be done on Tuesday you would get a call Monday night that it is ready to be picked up. Think what it would do with the construction industry. Being done by October would mean October of this year. Imagine if we were totally free of any symptom of ADD in our marriages and relationships. Couples would listen to each other. Nos. 2 and 3 on the above list would be no more.

Move up one more step of wishing: When a hyperactive president impulsively wants to attack another country, Ms. Barton would be in the Oval Office. She would see to it that the president and all his advisers were taking their medicines. She would instruct everyone to sit in his or her assigned seats and behave. No. 1 on the list would not be a problem. The Pentagon would pay close attention to details, so when a large American army rolls into a foreign country planners would consider the finer points on such things as how they plan to roll back out. In addition, when the American public speaks, politicians would listen, especially when spoken to directly. The failed, broken campaign promises would be things of the past with this newfound follow through. The diplomatic alternatives and other tough choices would be explored, especially if they needed sustained mental effort. Lastly, politicians would not forget their daily duties and focus on the people's business.

Where is Ms. Barton when we need her?

Joseph Cramer, M.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, practicing pediatrician for more than 25 years and an adjunct professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah. He can be reached at jgcramermd@yahoo.com.