As weekly reflection time rolls around once again, I again thank BBC World for keeping me updated on events I certainly wouldn't hear about from half paying attention to the news in the lounge or the embarrassing “news” on Yahoo when I check emails.  Last week I wrote about a very recent occurrence, shells from Syria exploding on the Turkish side of the border.  Since that article was published, I have noticed three different articles about continued conflict between the two nations.  This includes today’s that tells how a plane from Syria was searched upon a forced landing in Turkey because it was suspected to be carrying arms.  Could Turkey play a role in ending the Syrian conflict?  Their influence internationally could certainly help stir involvement.  BBC World also has an article about the Pope addressing a group of Middle East Christians making a pilgrimage to the Vatican in Arabic.

                To speak more closely to our class, I’m excited to chat with the Middle East activists tomorrow.  I think there will be an enormous advantage to having specific questions answered, especially about the mindsets and sentiments of the people there.  Also, I have been thinking hard about a Star Wars-themed moniker for these individuals and am having trouble.  I think we should discuss this in class tomorrow.