Chess is often used as a metaphor for life and one I find useful. I remember twenty something years ago watching a game of chess between Nick de Firmian, then a good player now a Grandmaster, and an unnamed opponent. They had just finished the game, and as often happens an analysis of the game ensued. Nick, his opponent, and other strong players began analyzing the moves, the what might have been. Determining where the losing move was made, then analyzing alternative moves and how those moves would fare. They soon arrived at the critical position. Nick's opponent kept trying the same line, somehow persuaded that if he repeated it often enough it would save the game, and others would point out the error in his thinking. They suggested different solutions, but he just couldn't let go of his bad idea. Finally, Nick turned to him and explained the obvious. That once they had determined that a line didn't work there was no use in repeating it that it wouldn't change anything. It was time to move on. That is what is happening in the Middle East. The Israelis and Palestinians are stuck, repeating the same moves over and over again. They've been playing these same moves for 50 years and for 50 years nothing has changed. It is time to move on. Time to try new moves. Time for a friend to say there is no use in repeating the same moves it won't change anything. Unlike chess the game need not be zero sum. Life is more complex than that. There are solutions. The what can be, where both sides win. The current game is over, its time to begin anew. That is the only move.