10/24/2021
Oct 24, 2021
My Friend & POTUS, JRB,
Who won the field hockey game yesterday? Did Natalie get plenty of playing time? Was that your first field hockey game? Field hockey is big in my family. My mom coached high school teams in IL & CT. Her players called her Ambi. I understand that the game has changed since she was involved in the late ‘70s & early ‘80s. They play on astroturf. They can hit the ball in the air. The players are in better shape so the game is faster. In any case, I hope a good time was had by all.
I hope you found some peace at Mass yesterday. For me, that’s at the heart of religious practice. It’s captured in the song, “Let there be peace on Earth, and let it begin with me.”
Most Americans struggle to find internal tranquility these days. According to today’s CSM, the country is full of righteous outrage. They say that anger is an American tradition. That may be true, but it’s exacerbated by Facebook. They failed to mention that because fear fuels anger, it erodes the soul. That’s why sitting in a quiet, calm place with others who are doing the same is so restorative. As one of my Friends said today, it brings us into the present where we can observe the miracle of our life by focusing on the rhythm of our breath.
The CSM noted that one way to address our anger issues is to express ourselves by making art. This can bring the community together which can sooth our souls.
I know that you have been known to succumb to anger. I appreciate that you have not done that in public lately. I also appreciate that you keep such a low profile that your only mention in the NYT today is that Jason Sudeikis did his improvisation of you on SNL last night. The WP had an interesting piece about your upcoming meeting with the Pope & the G noted that 5 young climate activists are having a hunger strike in DC. It’s so nice to have a POTUS who is not outrageous!
My Friend in Yangon is yearning for peace. Please help him if you can.
BYBS,
RCA
