David Siskind | Sunday, 23 November 2025
Things feel a little different here. There’s been a sort of vibe shift. I’m not sure it means anything but change is in the air. People in many walks of life are standing up to resist. This was always true on the ground as was demonstrated by the results of the off-year election, but there’s also a whiff of elite defiance in the air. Signs include 527 to 1 votes in Congress to release the Epstein files, MTG’s excoriation of DJT and MAGA while abandoning her seat, and the congressional six reminding the military of their oaths and their obligation to disobey illegal orders. But maybe most encouraging was the Trump-Mamdani presser yesterday following what was forecast as a brawl;Zohran apparently dazzled. He was irresistable. This is even more remarkable in historical context. American Exceptionalism, rather than reflecting some sort of special place in a divine plan, is truly defined by the unique status of the US as the only liberal democracy without a labor party, where socialism and communitarian politics are demonized and virtually forbidden. Trump has embraced a proud democratic socialist and possibly opened up possibilities for renewal here. (Don’t tell anyone but I predicted this - ask Jackie. I knew Donald couldn’t resist a tall, handsome fellow with a great smile - straight out of “Central Casting”).
For all of this I am thankful. Even if it only lasts for a week. Our fearless leader has mercurial moods and is surrounded by his cabal of dunces and ghouls, and they are apoplectic - which also pleases me.
I’m also thankful for the kids including Zohran. They’re great. My almost 30 year old cousin (once removed) Alice, is crashed out on my couch as I write. She’s an adventurer who has worked in the environmental assessment space, doing good all over the world, and currently living in London. And I am thankful to know that my twins, who are right now hanging out together in Vienna for the week, are who they are - kind and generous. It’s a joy to know that they are with each other, that they love and respect each other. And I’m thankful to know my young migrant friends, who daily demonstrate optimism and courage and have, despite a toxic level of stress in this time, the capacity to work hard, nurture their child, and experience joy and love. It’s all amazing to me.
And thanks to my brother and sister, nieces and in-laws for putting up with me. Jackie too (“What is wrong with you David?” “So many things!”). And Ann. And friends old and new.
And I’m thankful for the snake-head-shot. It’s fun to practice on grass and water. I think it shines a light on many, for me, unexplored aspects of throwing a loop. It tunes the double haul but most critically how a line can slip while still applying enough tension to propagate a loop. I’m only a little sad that the insights keep coming and hope that some deep knowledge of the sights and sensations will allow me to apply them under pressure. I’ll find out soon enough.
So to all in the US - happy Thanksgiving, and to everyone everywhere else try and forgive us for this mess. I’m glad you’re all out there.
David