I’ve been reflecting on how I, as an individual, fit into the 250 years of the United States of America.  I am, as we all are, individual members of this union.  Everyone has their own story.  Monday I shared a single page thought starter with a conversation group I’m part of.  And here I share it with y0u: Reflection at 250 years.  It speaks for itself.   Interpret as you wish.  I’ll share my personal thoughts on May 4.  I’ll welcome yours, if/as you wish..

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Sunday, April 26, I shared first thoughts in the wake of the White House Correspondents Dinner at the Capitol Hilton in Washington.  The next two days, ending this evening (Wednesday) have been highly publicized and puzzling.

I watched King Charles III speak at the Congress, and I was very impressed with how he approached the topic generally,  YouTube has numerous recordings of the speech, and I recommend a watch and listen.

The President seemed to use the near tragedy as a selling opportunity for his dream of a regal ballroom next to the White House, where the East Wing used to be.

I have an old postcard from 1904, showing the White House from where the future east wing would be constructed the following year, in Teddy Roosevelts term.  I think it is an outrageous decision to waste money we don’t have on this kind of frill, but who am I?

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Finally, I want to share a couple of individual comments generally relating to Iran.  They are opinions written at a certain point in time.  I appreciate their thoughts.  First, from Jim Klein April 9, 2026: the second, on April 20, from Jim Christie.  I’ve known both Jim’s for a lot of years.

I’d invite more such expressions of opinion, especially in the next two months as the 250th birthday approaches.