1. That we all need more drugs?
I don't get many comments here, but most of those that come through are in the form of spam. Actually, an avalanche of spam. Rather depressing. The spammers (at least) seem to be mostly concerned with what they consider our real problem, a lack of medication. And, ready to help, they suggest purchasing our medications from their own sketchy sources. Guess I can be glad that though my life has its darker moments, I don't require prescription drugs, eh? A shout-out to those who do, though. Sorry about that.
2. That resuscitation isn't what it used to be?
I'm also thankful that most of us do not require the professional services of the fire department. I do enjoy getting the inside scoop on their operations, courtesy of my EMT husband and the scanner I usually listen to when he's off on a call. Lately they've been practicing a new form of CPR. The old system gave you about a 6% chance of survival. (Kind of grim. Didn't tell you that in first aid class, did they?) This method, at least if conditions are right, can up your odds to 50%. Go for it, guys!
Did you also know that they practice chest compressions with the aid of a metronome - or, during drills, a sound track? Songs with a rate of 100 beats per minute preferred. "Stayin' Alive" is a popular choice, and more encouraging than the otherwise equally effective, "Another One Bites the Dust"!
3. That another superpower is having an election this week, too?
It isn't an election in the same sense of the word, I suppose. But the Communist Party of China is having its National Congress in Beijing, and there there will finalize selection of new leaders, particularly the 300 members of the party's Central Committee. The national congress only happens once every ten years, so it's kind of a big deal. China's current president Hu Jintao (who holds several titles), will be announcing his successor. Vice President Xi Jinping is expected to take over as president in March.
