To make and record history is a privilege. We learn so much from it. Now that I am teaching Philanthropy in Action at Yale University, I feel compelled to see these huge moments also in a philanthropic context.

Even with all this, the IEDs, al Qaeda and the suicide bombers and the revelation of General McChrystal's character deficiencies, I still think we have to stick it out in Afghanistan.

As a veteran, and having spoken with many of the men and women who have served and want to serve their country openly, I can tell Sen. John McCain's words and actions on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" are from a bygone era.

Don't Ask, Don't Tell is a wrong that can be made right. Just say what you said in your campaign, Mr. Obama, and what's on your White House web site. Do what you said you'd do.

Dosen't McCain and Palin understand that they undermine their own campaign with these shoddy attempts to fire up their own base?