Can you even imagine another country dropping a bomb on an elementary school in the United States, killing 175 young girls, and the president of that country saying that he thinks the Americans did it themselves? I’m sorry, but I just can not wrap my head around that.

Clearly, President Trump doesn’t give a damn (at least, doesn’t give a public damn) about those girls. Nor does the Secretary of War. And, yes, we should call him the Secretary of War, who has been put in charge of the Department of Defense. A mismatch.

Did anyone else hear Hegseth’s press conference yesterday? Much of it was devoted to the recitation of a biblical psalm, and to thanking his God for leading him in every step he is taking and protecting him. Do I remember an Ingmar Bergman fim from 60 years or so ago where both warring armies were accompanied by almost identical religious leaders assuring both sides, in almost identical words, that God was on their side, and would see them to victory? I probably don’t remember that, but I can see it clearly enough as if I did. And, it appears that, in 2026, I can choose my own historical truths.

I am writing quickly this morning. No Wikipedia research. But did you follow the results of the election last night in the 14th District of Georgia? My numbers won’t be fully accurate  but they will be close. The mail in votes were counted first (about 30% of the total vote), and the Democrat had about 44% of the vote. When the final tally was made, the Democrat had about 37% of the vote. In this Republican district, it won’t make much difference. But in swing districts, you can see why Trump wants to abolish mail in votes.

Okay, let’s change subjects. I am still reading Rez Life, and enjoying it. And I had a revalation. Growing up, I learned the name of many Indian tribes. But I never heard of Ojibwe until I was  well grown. But David Treuer said that the Ojibwe Nation was the largest in the US and Canada. How could I have not heard of them growing up? It’s because the Ojibwe are the Chippewa. Did everyone else know that?

It has been a busy morning. I am sitting for a casual lunch at a Filipino restaurant. That brings upctwo questions. First, why isn’t it Philippino?

Second, how do you decide between an adobo, lechon kawali, dinuguan, tapstlog, pancit bihon, bangus or lumpia? Maybe I will just have some crispy pata. Or a longanista sandwich.

Especially when you still have those 175 girls in your mind?

And take note of the handwriting on the wall? “Huwag pong itapon ang mga kutsara, tinidor at bilao sa basurahan.” You want to see the remnant of 333 years of Spanish control of the Philippines? It’sho “Basurahan”.