There has been entirely too much controversy about whether or not President Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize, and not enough clear and critical thinking. Apparently pundits get paid by the word.

I find it hilariously hypocritical of those on the right to hold up Martin Luther King as an example of the "ideal" recipient of the award, when only "yesterday" they opposed just about everything Dr. King supported.

I'm thoroughly enjoying listening and watching them flail about their lack of influence over the Nobel committee.

As well, people on the left are pissed at the President because he has continued the country's involvement in two wars despite his campaign promises.

Apparently, no one either side has actually read the Nobel committee's statement: "for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples"

I know, as an old corporate cynic, that awards are both wings and handcuffs. Awards are messages, and the Nobel Peace prize is no exception.

The award isn't about US. But yet it's all about us. It's about what the rest of the world expects from the United States moving forward. They expect the US to be a world citizen, not dominator.

I believe that this Nobel Prize is a wake up call that says to the President and the rest of us: "We expect great things from you. Come and join the family of nations and sit at the table as an equal."