Pat Taub
What A Week!
One scandal after another poured out of Washington! Is the Orange Monster on the way out? Can we rally the progressive forces to gain Democratic control of the House? These questions sparked conversation everywhere I went this week. Like most of you, I long to see my country turn from hate and corruption to a more benevolent, responsible state, esp. one that recognizes climate change and restores all the deregulation installed by our mad leader.
The New Yorker cover for Sept. 3rd titled, “Glad Tidings”
Grandson Max
Max, my grandson started 8thgrade this week. He’s consumed with soccer, playing several games a week with a school wardrobe restricted to soccer shirts. He’s a very sweet, sensitive boy. I hope that sports don’t make him too macho!
My City Garden
My little city garden is a happy profusion of color. I receive nice compliments from those walking by. I’m glad it can put a smile on stranger’s faces as well as my own.
Weekend Reading
I sent for and just received the new book, White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo. It’s garnered strong positive reviews. The author contends that white progressives, like me, are often unaware of their complicity in promoting racism. I want to be open to how I might be guilty of such.
Thinking Fall
It’s hard to believe that summer is winding down. Starting in mid-September I’ll be teaching “Women and Aging” at Portland’s senior college, known as OLLI. I’ve taught this course before but not for a few years. I like the opportunity to help empower older women as they contend with the forces of ageism and sexism and develop cohorts for this passage.
“Our Man in Tehran”
This week I watched the brilliant, captivating PBS Frontline program, Our Man in Tehran, produced by the New York Times Iranian correspondent, Thomas Erdbrink. He captures the vitality, rich culture and warm personalities of the Iranian people. I wish everyone could see it to help defuse the negative portrayal of Iran fostered by our government.
Thomas Erbrink, producer of “Our Man in Tehran” with his wife, Newsha Tavakolian
