7/23/2021

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            Have you talked to your people about the terrible CV outbreak in Myanmar? I’m not sure what we can do about it, but the junta is weaponising COVID-19 for its own political gain by arresting doctors & stealing medical supplies. This is especially concerning as the Delta variant takes hold.

            I’m embarrassed to admit that once I got vaccinated, I stopped paying much attention to the news about CV, so imagine my shock today upon reading that the Delta variant replicates much faster than earlier versions, has a viral load that is 1260 times higher & that vaccinated people are getting it. The news that 4 of the 9 legislative aides that tested positive for CV had been fully vaccinated was particularly alarming. Now I understand why so many people around here are still wearing masks. I wonder if we will have class in person this fall.

             The good news of the day is that the pandemic sparked a rise in gratitude. My UCD colleague, Robert Emmons, found that “more than 56% of American adults reported being very grateful, which was 17% greater than they reported being happy, hopeful, relieved, or joyful.” He says that the balm of gratitude is the source of resilience & has shown that counting our blessing every day promotes physical well-being.

            I encourage you to give it a try.

            BYBS,

            RCA