10/14/2022

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            I am totally charged up this morning. After being totally spent last night, I’ve got lots of energy to embrace the challenges of the day. I have no idea what transformed me, but I am grateful for it. How are you doing today?

            Perhaps I am energized because my husband has been showing more interest in life lately. As you will recall, he has treatment-resistant depression which means he spends most of his day in bed. He surprised me on Tues by going to Trader Joe’s with his caregiver. Yesterday, I was blown away when I found him cooking some mac & cheese. He hasn’t been in the kitchen for eons. It doesn’t sound like a big deal, but believe me, this is monumental!

            The LA Times notes that your trip to the City of Angels involves a “tableau” crafted to convey an “image of unity.” Do you think you succeeded in bringing some healing after those racist remarks damaged the Oaxacan community? It’s troubling that Latinx folx would talk that way. It’s just a reminder that we all live in a racist society in which we have internalized messages about the worth of our fellow human beings. While it’s “natural” to be biased, it’s divine to discipline oneself to resist those biases & let our loving selves prevail. It’s appropriate for Nury Martinez to step down, but I hope she isn’t vilified & dehumanized for her lack of discipline. We all make mistakes. Do you think she can make amends in some way to ameliorate the harm she has caused?

            Please continue to pay attention to the situation in Burma. I hope a way will open there soon.

            Have fun in So Cal today,

            BYBS,