So let’s first enjoy something for all who need escape, a balm, and some peace, and then we can hunker down with additional thoughts for those who (this week) have stomach, capacity, and intent for the task before us. You choose what you want or need.
Balm
Two TV shows to recommend. The first is a simple, old school, high energy with charismatic lead and supporting actors, shining example of a digital narrative you can’t wait to lose yourself in. The Pitt, in its first season on Max. Archetypal medical drama, done spectacularly well.
And yes, that’s Noah Wyle from ER, and he grew up nicely.
The second is a clever, modern comedy–with real, quirky characters in real shapes and sizes played by endearing actors–and another archetypal story, i.e. saving the world from aliens. Except this time one of the aliens can’t help but help the humans.
Three seasons on Netflix now–with a fourth predicted to arrive on SyFy by the end of this year–it even has a great name: Resident Alien. Laughing out loud is so good.
Tools
As I understand social media, supporters of our current president are using talking points from their favorite media to ward off the truth of what’s going on. As it happens, living in my blue bubble, I know none of these people personally. I thought some of you might have a wider circle than I, so below are a few talking points of truth to drop into discussions if the opportunity arises.
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- The Associated Press is being blocked from the White House pressers because they won’t use Gulf of America. Is this the free press you want?
- Head of CPAP, Matt Schlap is again accused of sexual assault on a young man. Why doesn’t the Republican Party cut loose its wrongdoers like the Democrats do? (i.e. Robert Menendez of New Jersey)
- If your community is believing the stories about “USAID waste,” this might be useful. Even Elon agreed he made a mistake. Moving fast, breaking things, and making corrections has a completely different impact on a programs that help keep people alive than it does in a tech startup of mostly men mostly right out of school
- The reality of what Elon’s staffers are doing in the US Treasury’s system is far more complex and risky than Republicans/DOGE first let on
- As reported in 2003, the amount of Social Security paid to dead people is a tiny percentage of the program’s benefits, not worth the cost incurred in the case
- Your beloved National Park may be at risk
- Some Republicans in Congress are starting to push back. You won’t be alone if you change your mind. And you certainly won’t be alone if you think you didn’t vote for Elon Musk and you don’t like what he’s doing.
For comfort or strength, community is the thing. Reach out and have a wonderful weekend.
