I've started watching Buffy episodes at random. Just saw the Witch - and thought, that's a lot better than I remember. And I'd forgotten how they resolved it, which also surprised me - because I thought I'd memorized it. It holds up better than I thought. It's also kind of fun to watch - without commenting or analyzing or feeling the need to discuss it with anyone.

My sister-in-law recommended the pod-cast Revolutions in the fall because it had gone sci-fi. I've not tried it yet - so thanks for the rec.

Conclave was brilliant by the way - thanks for that rec as well.

I've a total news blockage or about as total as I can manage in this information and news soaked society. I need to find a cabin in the woods somewhere and become a hermit. But like you, I get comfort from the fact that history shows this too shall pass - then come back again until humanity finally figures it out. Humanity can be a bit dense, sometimes it takes multiple times. Just look at all the Empires that crumpled only to give birth to new ones. People haven't figured out yet that power is an illusion, you don't want to vote or pick Barabbas over Jesus (or if you have a choice? Pick the person who doesn't want power to lead you, not the one begging for it, and definitely not the criminal.).