Just as President Obama held a round table beer summit to assuage the race relations between two parties who were clearly at odds with each other, I have held “summits” at a round table, namely the one in my office, to similarly assuage relationships between opposing parties. But clearly what has been missing from my round table discussions is the drink. From now on, I will keep packets of Kool-Aid in my office and whenever I have to sit down at my round table with warring parties, I’ll serve some Kool-Aid. And, as President Obama gave each party at his table his choice of beer, I will give each party at my table his choice of Kool-Aid. I’m not sure it will make headlines, but it’s sure worth a shot if it means mending relationships. Gates and Crowley said they’ll attend a Boston Red Sox game together. Who knows what it could do for my kids and faculty. But you know what, if it builds relationships, I’m all for it. (I just hope it doesn’t become popular to end up at my round table just to have a little Kool-Aid).
Nancy Flynn
8-19-09