Mrs. Clinton's strategy seems to be that the best defense is a "good" offense. Mr. Obama should certainly defend himself against unwarranted charges, thus displaying to all that he would as commander in chief defend the nation (an ability that ironically and tragically the war hero Kerry did not demonstrate to many, by his poor defense of himself against the horrid Swift Boat attacks). But then Mr. Obama should put down the shield and not take up the sword: He should continue to inspire with his words, and plans, of hope and unity. That as much as defense is what the nation needs and wants.