It was the same old scene: The president stands in front, vice president and House of Representatives speaker sit behind, Congress smiles and applauds a lot.

But last week's State of the Union address also offered something noteworthy -- hope for our future. With strong words of dedication and commitment, President Clinton laid out his 1994 agenda of much-needed reform for health care, welfare and crime prevention.

In a positive and bold move, Clinton vowed to veto any health care plan not guaranteeing universal coverage for every citizen. Although he has been willing to compromise details in the past, the president must stand his ground when it comes to delivering the package he promised. Even though it may elicit stronger Republican opposition, Clinton finally made the firm statement we've been waiting to hear.

By making welfare reform and crime prevention priorities, Clinton seems poised and ready to initiate real changes to lingering problems. It is ironic that Clinton chose traditionally Republican-dominated themes as his primary concerns -- but nevertheless it is encouraging. Afterall, welfare, crime and health care reform resonate throughout the political spectrum even though solutions vary.

Just like the coalition the administration built to pass the North American Free Trade Agreement, the potential for strong bipartisan cooperation exists in the coming year. But Clinton must remember that Americans read his lips and will hold him to his word -- especially his promise to provide universal health care.

For now, we're hopeful. This is the time when strong leadership and innovative policies must emerge. The jury is still out as to whether President Clinton can actually deliver, but at least he's on the right track.