A reflief from the week's events

This week was  significantly sad for many reasons: The Boston bombing, the Texas tragedy, the defeat of the gun violence control bill, attempted Risin attacks. The flags at the ball parks are at half mast, and there is a minute of silence. Surprisingly, this is the first chance I have to be quiet and reflect, bringing me to tears for it all.

Then all attention is on the resonant soaring sound of the Star Spangled Banner and the antics of a large green furry mascot. How sweet to have this time with friends as we focus our energies on a small round ball, a pitcher's stance, a runner making it to first, a steal, a run. The Phillies down two, tied, down one, tied, down one again. They keep it interesting, with a final inning of high expectations, ending alas in disappointment. Still, a happy diversion from it all.