That's it truth seeker. I was pretty wild in my youth too. As my grandmother used to say, you get more flies with honey than you do vinegar. I think he is trying to convince himself of his beliefs more so than trying to change our minds.
I am trying to compare and contrast the main figures in conservatism from my conversion period (actually a reversion to my family's origin) versus today.
Then we had established national figures--Reagan had served two terms as Governor of the biggest state. He'd run well in 1976. He written books, and spoken on television over the years.
He had history, standing, status, credibility, trust. No wonder he won twice, and boosted his successor to office as well. 12 years.
Of those living these days, only Cheney and Gingrich come anywhere close.