Here are five things that caught my attention!
Ukraine: The Russian invasion of Ukraine is fast developing and very concerning. It really is about more than just Ukraine. The Iranians are embracing the Russian action, there is a real concern that China could feel emboldened to take Taiwan, and we could be seeing the foundations of a new cold war with close to equal sides–one authoritarian and one democratic. The sanctions will hurt Russia and there is always a chance Ukraine today could be the Soviets Afghanistan from the past. But it is worth our attention. Oh yeah, don’t get your hot takes from Senator Tuberville of Alabama. Geez.
Wow: Speaking of Ukraine, you have to check out Associated Press reporter Philip Crowther. He is reporting from Ukraine in SIX DIFFERENT LANGUAGES!
Baseball please: I am missing spring training and hoping that opening day isn’t delayed. Opening Day is one of my favorite days of the year! But while we don’t have baseball right now, you can get your fill about all that is MLB from the legendary Peter Gammons.
David Brooks: New York Times columnist David Brooks was in San Diego this week for the 27th Annual Writer’s Symposium by the Sea. I have long been a fan of David and had the great fortune to have been able to spend some time with him over the years. I highly recommend his columns in the times and his recent book–The Second Mountain. Caleb joined me and we had a great time. A special shout out to Dr. Dean Nelson and the entire team at Point Loma Nazarene University for organizing such a great event.
Sweetest thing: Caleb listened intently to about 90% of the program with David Brooks, and then asked for a pen and one of the note cards I carry in my pocket so he could practice his cursive writing. The result? Something I will carry forever!
