10/30/2021

Oct 30, 2021

My dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            It is so quiet in my neighborhood that the only sound I notice is the fridge straining. I hope it’s not going to fail. I don’t need the hassle of finding a replacement.

            Are you having fun with the folks at the G20? I continue to be disappointed that only 2 of the 21 leaders in the family photo are women. When ADM is gone, Ursula von der Leyen may be the only one left. As the President of the European Commission, she’s elected by the European Parliament, so it’s unclear to me how much authority she has. At least you all are supposed to be talking about gender issues, especially the plight of the women in Afghanistan. I hope you figure some things out.

            I also hope you talk about advancing democracies.  Since VVP & XJ aren’t there, in person, it shouldn’t be so awkward to do so. Perhaps Felix Tshisekedi, Pres. of Congo & Chair of the African Union will bring up the civilian uprising in Sudan & others can speak to the continued protests in Myanmar as indicators that people prefer democracy to military rule. According to the CSM, “the conflicts in Sudan and Myanmar are battles for the hearts of those with guns. Either by mass protest or quiet appeals, the battle can be won peacefully.” Appealing to the conscience of the frontline soldiers can make a difference, so pleases ask your G20 colleagues to use your collective voice to do just that.

            As you talk with the world’s leaders, don’t be embarrassed by our efforts regarding the Climate Crisis (CC). Instead, you can brag that CC initiatives are the single largest component of BBB & that we are heading in the right direction, even though JM3 is dragging his feet.

Let’s maintain optimism that KLS will recall her roots in the Green party & your appeal to JM3’s better angels will work.

            I hope you get a chance to dance at tonight’s Gala.

            BYBS,