Originally published in the Deseret News.
In a clever piece of writing, the Economist magazine said Donald Trump is to public service what professional wrestling is to sport. The magazine’s writers characterized his candidacy as “a suspension of belief for escapists.” They are escaping a Washington, D.C., that doesn’t work anymore. I get it. With his nomination a near fait accompli and another toxic confirmation battle brewing over President Obama’s pick for the Supreme Court, many Americans are beyond belief and need to escape for a while. Fortunately, there are many other worthy escape plans.
The Big Dance
The University of Utah Runnin’ Utes and Weber State Wildcats secured invitations to the Big Dance. There’s nothing quite like NCAA March Madness in sports. It captivates Americans with a dazzling display of clutch superstars, underdog performances and inspiring storylines. The win-or-go-home format makes every second count. Fill in your brackets, root for local teams and enjoy every shining moment. Most importantly, don’t look up any political stories on your digital device while watching the Big Dance or you will spoil the fun.
Playoff berth for the Jazz
Continuing the sporting theme … the Utah Jazz still have a decent shot at making the playoffs. This is no small accomplishments with the youngest team in the NBA (tied with Milwaukee with an average age of 24.1) and a rack of injuries that have penalized the team. Coach Quinn Snyder and the players are winning the loyalty of fans. I’m excited about Rodney Hood, who looks to have star power. I also love the energy of Trevor Booker. As a respite from the presidential elections, experience the joy of Jazz basketball.
Nonstop flights to London, Paris and Amsterdam
Delta Air Lines provides three nonstop flights from Salt Lake City to Europe. I’ve flown the Paris flight several times. There’s nothing quite like leaving the interior Western United States and landing 10 hours later in the City of Light. The Amsterdam flight has similar appeal. In a short visit you can enjoy a canal cruise, visit the Van Gogh Museum, or call on the beautiful Holland countryside, all in a country with a high concentration of English speakers. And if it’s the Queen’s English you seek, nonstop service to London-Heathrow commences April 23. While there you can see what America can learn from a parliamentary form of government!
A good book
Sports and travel are great escapes, but so is good book. In recent years there have been many books examining America’s relationship with the world. I recommend the insightful and sobering “America in Retreat,” by Bret Stephens. Stephens skillfully makes the case for engagement, global markets, capital flows, free trade, openness and tolerance. He explains that America withdraws from these practices at its own peril … and the world’s peril as well. One warning: This book won’t provide refuge from the current presidential election; it will frighten you more. You will also be more informed.
Turn the TV off
Perhaps the best inoculation to avoid the sickness of American presidential politics is to turn off your TV. Let CNN, FOX News Channel, or MSNBC go for a while. Walk the dog. Listen to inspiring music. Prepare for the Passover or Easter celebrations. Go spring skiing. Visit Utah’s extraordinary red rock country. Take a run or ride your bike. Cook a magical meal. Visit a loved one. Volunteer for a worthy cause. There is so much beauty in this world ready for the taking. Escape for a while.
When you return from your suspension of belief, America will be right where you left her — the indisputable leader of the free world. She will continue to need your tender loving care. She will yearn for people who place love of country above politics and personal ambition. And she will remind you the best escape is not the things I’ve listed. These are temporary fixes. The real solution lies in fixing our nation’s problems. We have to find a way.