Conflict in the Middle East continues to waste thousands of innocent lives, tarnish the United States’ reputation, and sow the seeds for future trouble. Russia’s war in Ukraine seems headed for a disappointing denouement. Populists are gaining ground in many countries, sowing division and suspicion while offering few solutions for the daunting challenges that modern societies face. The planet continues to heat up while measures to address the climate crisis languish.

Today is Thanksgiving in the United States, and it has been my custom at this time of year to offer a list of the things for which I’m feeling thankful. Unfortunately, that task requires a bit more effort this time around.

Today is Thanksgiving in the United States, and it has been my custom at this time of year to offer a list of the things for which I’m feeling thankful. Unfortunately, that task requires a bit more effort this time around.

Conflict in the Middle East continues to waste thousands of innocent lives, tarnish the United States’ reputation, and sow the seeds for future trouble. Russia’s war in Ukraine seems headed for a disappointing denouement. Populists are gaining ground in many countries, sowing division and suspicion while offering few solutions for the daunting challenges that modern societies face. The planet continues to heat up while measures to address the climate crisis languish.

And oh, yes: Voters in the United States just elected a criminal as their next president, who is now busily appointing a government of loyalists, plutocrats, and oddballs looking to fleece the public and enrich themselves.