Chelsea Clinton was married today. It appears to be a day of joy for the two families. Despite the immense pressures of being the only child of two powerful, prominent celebrities and experiencing the joys and the sorrows of her father's presidency, Chelsea has quietly developed her own person.  She does not appear to be the public person that parents are. She has just recently completed a masters degree from Columbia University's school of public health. She gives the appearance of someone who has matured with some grace and dignity. She and her new husband have different spirituaal beliefs. I pray that the new couple share many years of happiness and that they use their formidable influence and training to make a difference in the world. 

The ruling by the federal judge in Arizona, striking down the harsh immigration law leaves the field open in terms of dealing with issues of immigration.  Emotionalism reigns on both sides of the aisle politically and much is not understood regarding immigration law. Ultimately people's lives are at stake. There is a balancing of those who want stringent enforcement of immigration and prosecution of illegals. The arguments range from national security, ti burdening overburdened medical, benefits and educational systems, to fear of illegals taking jobs. On the other side are those who argue from humanitarian roots--that perhaps 90% or more of those seeking refuge in this land are honest, hard-working people who cannot be blamed for being born into poverty (just as we cannot take credit for being born into priviliege.  Those on this would argue that rather than throwing up 1500 miles of wall (ironic given that Reagan told "Mr Gorbachev to take down his wall,") use those funds to help illegals come, work, stay and leave leagally--make it easier and more trackable. 

where do you all weigh in on this matter?

I had a great trip to the UK, meeting some very interesting people and making great connections for ALARM. On my last night I stayed near the Earl's Court stop on the tube in London. The neighborhood there is beautiful--many flowers in window boxes, well-kept row homes. I had a couple of hours free and so did a speed tour of the Museum of Natural History, something I have always wanted to do. (See my Facebook page for pictures. For some reason I can't post pictures  on my blog.) I was trying to economize in my hotel accomodations and it was a little too economical--a bit of a dive. Hot, dirty, bugs . . . .

I will post more later. I love Oxford, such a historic place. The university is amazing. I have presented at a conference on forgiveness with 50 other scholars from 22 countries. It has been a rich time with new friends.I catch a train tonight to Worcester to spend Sunday with friends Rich and Kath Johnson whom I met in New Zealand. 3 services with them at the Anglican church at which he is now rector. Then Monday, travel to London, more meetings. Tuesday back to the U.S. I hope to squeeze in a little time at the British Museum of Natural History.

I am in the UK on Oxford and this place (UK) has no popcorn . . .or I should say they say they only have sweet popcorn. What is stinking sweet popcorn? Do they serve it with crumpets and team and fine china that you drink with your pinkie straight up inthe air? Most stores don't even have any form of popcorn. Some potatoe chips are alright--sea-salt and malt vinegar but those aren't that good for you and they have some very odd flavors of chipcc but I have found Wasabi Peas . . .low calorie, tastie, shock to the sense and 15 grams of fibre . . . .need I say more for those of us over 50 and taking meds this is like nervon. this has like colon blow up propertis.  Well let me MOVE on.