I open the blinds and let in a sky so smoggy I keep my reading lamp on even though it is well over an hour after sunrise. Particles of solid and liquid droplets extend up into the jet stream and come down into our lungs and bloodstream. The forest fires are getting closer every year.

The daily news bears forecasts of more of the same atmosphere and impending deadlines of overseas ceasefires that have not been recognized. I wonder when the battles will begin over our fresh water and trees, even as we are in a trade war with our next-door neighbor.

As I near the end of middle age, I try to see the various battles of this world in such a way as not to make them worse. I seek harmony with everyone wherever possible, even those who don’t share my unique value systems, and try to find solutions that work for all of us.