Vicente Fox has taken over as head of his country. It is a very dramatic changing of the guard, however, even discounting the fact that it is something that happens only once every six years.

There are fresh winds of optimism blowing all over Mexico's territory because of this man's vision.

The question remains as to how far his fellow citizens will go to support the decidedly meaningful changes that Fox will be proposing along with his all new Cabinet.

As a way of affirming his vision for change, Fox named Rincon Gallardo, this year's presidential candidate under the Social Democracy Party banner, as head of a special commission on discrimination.

And an Indian Affairs Cabinet position was created with Xochitl Galvez appointed as adviser.

Fox's Cabinet positions are special because every member brings a wealth of professional experience to his or her new tasks.

In addition, none of Fox's choices was part of the official ruling party nor a recipient of wealth-producing titles.

One of the most meaningful strategies of Fox's administration is to operate Mexico's government as a corporation, truly dedicated to positive results.

Of particular importance in the selection of Fox's Cabinet is the naming of Jorge G. Castaneda as foreign minister. Castaneda is well-known for his scholarly works and as an astute columnist focusing on the political nuances of numerous countries in the Western Hemisphere.

Fox expresses some definite views and states specific goals with respect to U.S. relations. And as Castaneda reiterated recently to the press:

"There will be generally continuity of Mexico's foreign policy, which in recent years has embraced much warmer relations with the United States."

But he added, "There will be some changes in emphasis, such as greater attention to Mexican immigration to the United States."

Fox's interest on border issues is such that he will personally be present this month at the Texas border to greet immigrant workers going back to Mexico for the holidays.

Among other things, it will be a symbolic gesture and a strong admonition for Mexican immigration and customs officers who historically prey on the thousands of workers visiting their homeland.

Many changes to be pursued by Fox and his administration have a series of built-in adversaries.

There are the thousands of members of the ruling party, or PRI, who - along with other groups, including the powerful international narco-merchants - view Fox as enemy No. 1.

All those reforms proposed by Fox will be successful only if people in Mexico decide to cooperate and actively participate in the betterment of their government.

In years past, politics was a negative activity, now it is a definite must.

A six-year presidential term is insufficient time for Fox to bring about all those needed changes.

But possibly a miracle could take place through a citizens' transformation, a metamorphosis allowing a new Mexico to be born.

And, quite possibly, Vicente Fox could become one of the most illustrious presidents of Mexico.

* Ernesto V. Portillo Sr. is a columnist for the Arizona Daily Star.