Feeling Grounded Again

A simple bowl of New England Clam Chowder. One of my last meals during my first trip back to the US in more than 2 years. It was bought for me by a former secretary general of Pugwash, a man who has throughout his career served his country and promoted peace. (At one time he was involved with devising the strategic nuclear targeting plan of the US, planning the potential deaths of millions of people, and yet he is one of the warmest people I know-a man who came to see me in Boston despite severe mobility problems. Like so many people I have met through Pugwash, he leaves me feeling awed by the breadth of his mind and humbled by his commitment.) I also met with a man who singlehandedly did more on the US side than most to build bridges between the US and the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War, a retired professor and a scientific advisor to the president, who has trouble getting around and yet who served me a lovely lunch at his apartment. A week full of meetings with people who had no time to meet, but who made time because they care about the Pugwash History, they care about current issues related to nuclear weapons, they value networks of people who together might be able to ensure that these horrendous weapons are never used again, they support young people in the field (not that I qualify as 'young' anymore)...

I spent a lovely 24 hours with my sister and her husband, eating good food, and melting away the months since we last saw each other in England. Martin handled things well at home, and the boys were well-behaved for him.

It was nice to be back in DC, and to catch up with so many people, with good friends and their kids (and cats and dogs). I ate lots of bagels and muffins. I had bbq'd chicken with the Lusks and had great conversations with Kate & Will, I did some artwork with Lily, hung out with Lora & Jim, had crabcakes with Deborah and Paul, got to know Griffin and Oliver better, and caught up with Christy and Guy. I was exhausted when I got back, and I have serious digging out to do, and loads of notes to type up from the meetings. But I am glad I went.

I feel grounded again. (Sandy)