If you ran into Tom Foley following his ouster from Congress in 1994, you sensed a man living a life that didn’t reflect his dreams. Life as a lawyer in a Washington, D.C., lobbyist firm didn’t seem the best fit for a man who spent 30 years as a public servant and loved every year of it.

Foley, especially the first year after his defeat, seemed distracted and a tad sad. And he didn’t appear to be having much of the fun you can have when you enjoy your job.

Well, the smiles are back. Foley is expected to be confirmed soon as ambassador to Japan. It’s a terrific match. Known for his skill as a quiet but tenacious negotiator, Foley will fit in well in a country that hates aggression but loves firmness.

Foley might be the man who finally solves the trade-deficit problem that costs the United States billions each year. And we hope Foley will have some fun again, doing a job he loves.

, DataTimes The following fields overflowed: CREDIT = Rebecca Nappi For the editorial board