Hope

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/01/opinion/01mubarak.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
I remember when I felt that the USSR was always going to be a thorn in the side of liberty.  I remember when a unified Germany seemed like a silly dream.  I remember thinking Leck Walensa's quest seemed noble but pointless.  I remember thinking they would never free Mandela or give up apartheid.

How and what will change this circumstance?

Reminds me of the Sting tune, "I Hope the Russians Love Their Children Too."