Today's opening of the state Legislature will feature the usual festivities and feasting that have become a cherished tradition here, to be sure.

This year, however, it would be wondrous to see lawmakers promptly stash the hats and horns and get down to business — so that by the end of session there really will be cause to celebrate.

The 60-day legislative session is precious little time for accomplishing what needs to be done. Hawai'i is poised for a perfect storm.

Our poorest citizens look around and see enormous holes in the social safety net. Homelessness is on the rise; it can no longer be swept from view. The job market has ample openings, but not enough opportunities at salaries that could support a family here. The education system is struggling to equip young people with the skills they need, and more students need remediation at the college level.

With increased taxes, rising energy expenses and a cost of living that continues its upward climb, our dwindling middle class might wonder what attraction Hawai'i residency still holds. And healthcare costs, as our population ages, are spiraling out of reach.

These are tough issues even under the best circumstances, and all but impossible when the process devolves into endless politics rather than a meeting of the minds.

Lawmakers are well aware of what lies ahead. Clearly, they recognize that their overarching challenge is to revive confidence in Hawai'i's sustainability. But the first step would be a sustainable legislative effort, guided by a long-range blueprint that looks beyond the next election cycle.

Perhaps Democratic leadership should follow U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lead and devise a "100-hours" agenda targeting key initiatives, a kick-start in a larger plan. What we've heard so far from leadership is a prudent if uninspiring call for fiscal conservativism. Careful is good. But we need creativity and vision, with collective wisdom from both parties.

Top lawmakers say they're listening to all sides. Let's hold them to that pledge.