As I was tuning over to the TV Guide channel to check tonight’s schedule of movies, etc., I passed C-SPAN and paused to see what was on. Normally I dont look at C-SPAN, but it was mentioned in some news I read recently, so I paused for a glance.
The bottom of the screen read “State of Global Economy: World Affairs Council.” It was recorded earlier today at The University Club in Washington DC. The Deputy Chief of Mission from the French Embassy was addressing the group, reporting figures and other economic items from his country.
What made me stop and just stare was that as the Deputy Chief was making his report, the camera panned into a wide shot, revealing well-dressed men and women eating lunch on fine china on linen-covered tables, complete with goblets for water, small cups of coffee, and in the center of each table a floral arrangement featuring tigerlilies.
Yeah, I don’t know who all was garhered there, but somehow I don’t think they will take the global economic challenges that seriously. Oh, I’m sure if you asked any one of them directly, they would dispute that. And perhaps the more important stuff is covered at regular meetings.
It’s just that eating good food and feeling satisfied and full tends to make people quite agreeable. Believe me, I’ve been to lunch meetings. There’s a lot of good feeling, not much conflict. People are more content with food in their bellies.