The Weeks That Were
July 16 - 30, 2021
Well, it’s time to walk through some of the news of the past few weeks as seen through the lens of my Twitter feed. After all, there’s only so much you can say in 280 characters. Sometimes a little context, perspective, and perchance humor are warranted?
Today’s walk through some of my tweets may be a different in tone than some of the previous fare, but these are serious times and I would like to start today with a desperate appeal: if you are able, and haven’t done so already, please, please, please get vaccinated. If you are hesitant, talk to your doctor. Listen to the experts. Please consider changing your mind. The Delta variant is very serious and on the rise and virtually all COVID hospitalizations and deaths are among unvaccinated people.
I start today with a story from an Alabama doctor who recounts the fear, regret, and unfortunate deaths of those who did not get the vaccine. The power of disinformation is strong, and very, very, tragic. Hopefully this message can save lives.
Is what we were told about the virus changing, even from public health experts? The short answer is yes. We can look back later at failures in messaging, but this is also how science works. Maybe someone can explain that to a certain member of Congress.
Of course this epidemic of illogic and deadly propaganda is sweeping through the Republican ranks among elected officials. Dr. Anthony Fauci had a famous showdown in a hearing with Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, in which he cut right to the matter with a quote that made headlines.
Message received? Not exactly. Just a few days ago, the House Minority Leader shared his own particular brand of know-nothing nonsense —once again. With Kevin McCarthy, these kinds of statements are sadly so predictable you can almost set your watch to them.
Of course COVID isn’t the only dire scientific threat that Republicans in Congress approach with the sophistication of a distracted toddler. But if you call them on it they tend to melt faster than, well…
Despite all their efforts to deny truth, push agendas, and support their leader, it seems that Trump supporters are getting the proverbial short end of the stick. While his legion of fans/sycophants are out doing his dirty work, Trump’s PAC is stockpiling funds. Saving for a rainy day, a McDonald’s order, legal fees, or a 2024 White House run? Amidst the countless election challenges and support of the Big Lie, by the numbers it doesn’t look like Trump is putting his money where his mouth is. Put me in the category of unsurprised.
Many Republicans have signed up to salute this craziness, but not everyone — as we saw in the impressive start to the House select committee hearings on the 1/6 insurrection.
All of this has been very serious stuff, but I want to leave you today with a happy taste of the season. One of the best hallmarks of summer is the cornucopia of fresh fruit that seems to be everywhere you look. I could not resist sharing this helpful guide. (And if you want more inspiration, check the comments section on our community discussion of favorite foods and recipes.) Before summertime is over, I hope you can treat yourself to something delicious.
And finally, a moment of zen. Hope you have a whale of a weekend.
- In Case You Missed It -
Here are some articles from this week of stories that are must-reads, underreported, or just plain interesting:
‘No One Is Safe’: Extreme Weather Batters the Wealthy World [NYTimes]
Mom regrets not getting her 13-year-old vaccinated as delta variant surges [KTVB]
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I think people who choose to not get vaccinated are very fearful of life and civil society in general … and the line of healthy skepticism and reasonable caution is blurred and distorted because of their fear … so they reach for excuses or explanations on the margins that of course are not rational and the end result is continued needless suffering … and it will be what it will be and perhaps some will be convinced but what of the others? Their leaders will need to step up and the conspirators of disinformation confronted … freedom of speech still requires some responsibility and deference to the good of a society …
It is so infuriating why people are not getting the vaccine. There has been plenty of time to "wait and see." Their selfish attitude saying "I am not sick," "I look after myself," "It is my decision and my right to not get it", doesn't fly when dealing with this virus or the variants. Why are people not coming together to fight this? Why are people not thinking what is best for society as a whole? Your right to not get the vaccine will most likely seriously harm many others. How is it that your rights are more important than other people's safety? You have a choice. You can either get the shot, which has proven to be very safe, or you are going to get COVID19 and spread it to others. It is really that simple.