10/14/2023

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            I was sorry to see that your stumble in Philly yesterday made the headlines at Fox & the Daily Mail. I thought you handled it quite gracefully.

            Speaking of grace, I hope you find a way to speak “uncomfortable truths” about the places in the world where civilians are being bombed including Gaza & Burma. Half of the population in those places is under the age of 18. They have nowhere to go since countries around the world have become adverse to refugees.

            Please repeat Sec of Defense Austin’s remarks, “This is a time for resolve & not revenge,” & remind the world that the kids living in Gaza are innocent. You can’t kill the Devil with a gun or a sword. So, while Hamas fighters may perish along with their siblings in the next few weeks, many more will join up as long as the people of Gaza have no freedom or dignity. Hate & anger never solved anything.

            Are you ready for the solar eclipse? In DC, only 30% of the sun will be blocked. Here in Sacto, about 80% will be. It will be quite noticeable. I remember in 1994, I was excited about an eclipse in Madison, WI. When I asked my 75-year-old advisor if she would be checking it out, she said, “I’ve seen that before.” Dang, I hope I never get that jaded.

I hope you take a minute to go outside at 1:19 when the eclipse will peak & then share your awe with the nation. According to Dacher Keltner, perceiving vastness can be transformative & has “tremendous health benefits that include calming down our nervous system & triggering the release of oxytocin, the “love” hormone that promotes trust & bonding.” We could both use that today, don’t you think?

            I hope you find some peace of mind at the Human Rights Campaign National Dinner tonight.

            BYBS,