Yes, I think we agree the U.S. should be doing more, one way or another. I don't fully understand the subject matter. My talent, if I have one, is making connections that aren't obvious, but important. Most of what I write is garbage, even to me. I'll never be a Thomas Friedman, not even close. I wish I could sing. I wish I could write well. I feel compelled to point out this or that. I'd stop but many of the people I read or listen to are also annoying to me and I think them grossly wrong in many areas.

If Proust hated Joyce, and visa versa. If they both thought the other couldn't write worth a bean, what does that say about the rest of us?