I managed to avoid most of Monday’s news until midday Tuesday, when I braved the cold to pick up the newspaper at the end of the driveway. I brought it inside, holding it by its edge, as if it might be slightly radioactive, then in a burst of bravery pulled it from its plastic sleeve and took a glance.

My first impression was of a state funeral: the somber expressions, the black clothing. I began to read and felt my blood pressure rising. It was too early in the day to be upset, so I put the newspaper aside.

I accept the results of the 2024 election, the will of the people. I seldom discuss politics in this blog. But for me and for many, there is a very real problem. Well, there are many real problems, but the one I want to mention here is this one: What do I do about the news?

I’m a journalist by trade. For years we had two daily newspapers delivered to the house. We still have one, an indulgence that’s beginning to feel like a flagellation. I believe it is our duty as citizens to be informed about the workings of the country.

As usual, though, the devil is in the details: How informed? And by whom or what? I’ll figure this out eventually, I hope, but for now, all I have is a question: What do I do about the news?