It's important to reflect on personal decisions to understand how reality actually works. Dignitaries meeting at the UN this week get to make some of the most important decisions that shape the lives of the world. It's always felt like a contradiction to me that a handful of leaders hold all the leverage to dictate global policies, leaving the rest of the world to live with the consequences.

Tuesday: Highlights of Trump Speech

Trump sounded like a dictator spouting off at the mouth with empty threats and broken promises. His rhetoric was not well received by foreign dignitaries as well by Americans who worry about the consequences of his policies. His poll numbers are tanking as costs rise and the threat of a prolonged war with Iran looms. ~ Ellie

Wednesday: Iran's president Pezeshkian laid out Tehran's demands to the world, from a podium in New York pushing back against threats from Trump declaring that Iran will never "bend the knee" or surrender to a "bullying mentality".

Pezeshkian balanced his defiance by signaling that Iran remains open to dialogue and diplomatic negotiations, provided they are conducted without the threat of force. He reiterated that Iran has no intention of developing nuclear weapons, but firmly stated that the country will not give up its right to a civilian, peaceful nuclear program.

Thursday:

Netanyahu takes UN stage with one eye on Israel's election

Judge orders Trump administration to immediately reinstate White House access to CNN, MS NOW and Politico

Trump greets Xi with lavish fanfare, but expectations for the summit remain low

One of the most important holidays in Chinese culture on par with the Chinese New Year. Lanterns of all size and shapes, are carried and displayed - symbolic beacons that light people's path to prosperity and good fortune. Mooncakes, a rich pastry typically filled with sweet-bean, egg yolk, meat or lotus-seed paste, are traditionally eaten during this festival.