Explore Political Issues and Global Challenges

Happy Friday!

The tradition is to take a break from Alzheimer’s discussions on Friday and have a bit of fun. Take a look back in history. Highlight a few fun or whacky events around the world. Maybe, even talk about favorite restaurants from my travels years ago.

Not today.

There is too much turmoil in the world that needs our focus and attention. Frankly, to a large degree the world is at an inflection point. There are important economic, political, military, and space exploration issues that have significant implications for all of us.

How these issues are resolved impacts the future of Alzheimer’s disease research. In the United States, the billions of dollars spent on the war will likely result in cuts to research grants.

Artemis II Comes Home Tonight

The technology is solid for a safe reentry. The crew certainly has the chops needed to endure the landing into the Pacific Ocean. Come home safely, astronauts,

Iran and the United States Representatives Meet in Pakistan Saturday

Under the cloud of a shaky ceasefire agreement, high level negotiators from Iran and the United States will meet to take the first steps toward a long-term peace accord.

Israel Continues to Bomb Lebanon

Lebanon said at least 182 people were killed and hundreds were wounded on Wednesday. The attacks continue with no end in sight.

The Iran War is pushing inflation higher around the globe.

Most economists do not see much relief in consumer prices until the war is over.

From a mental health perspective, the four events listed above are certain to create stress that results in anxiety, depression, and paranoia. Many innocent lives had been shattered in the Iran War leaving families and friends of the dead devastated. Thousands of people have sustained injuries. The physical injuries may heal; but, the mental health damage will likely linger forever.

Due to rapidly rising costs of fuel, groceries, and housing, many people will go to bed hungry tonight. They may be worried about paying their rent. Or, paying for gas for their car so they can drive to work.

If the world has the ability to develop Artificial Intelligence, and to build a rocket that can travel 695,081 miles over a ten-day period, why can we not prevent deadly wars?

I hope everyone has a nice weekend. Please pray, meditate, think deeply, or commit a random act of kindness in the name of world peace.