6/12/2026

My Dear Friend & POTUS, DJT,

Did you ever meet artist David Hockney, who is being eulogized in the media this morning? I looked him up after hearing his companion talking about him, saying “his investigative curiosity (was) encapsulated by his signature phrase, ‘Love life.’” I found his work whimsical, provocative & unique. He said he never knew which of his pieces was going to be memorable & if he knew the formula for creating something that would sell for $90 million, there’d create a lot more of them.

Isn’t that how you feel about deal making? That there’s no formula for it. Aa explained to me that in your book, you stressed the need for adaptability, as well as an inclination to “think big.” Aa concluded with the observation that “the (book’s) title consciously echoes The Art of War framing business negotiation as a kind of strategic combat requiring wisdom & cunning rather than brute force.”

Is this why you keep backing away from your threats to destroy Iran? That you know that brute force is not the way to go? 

Aa’s observation that you were inspired by Sun Tzu’s 2500 year old book got my attention. Did you read it or did someone tell you about it? 

Speaking of old texts, I just learned about “Oráculo manual y arte de prudencia” when I asked Aa who came up with the phrase, “Quit while you’re ahead (QWYA).” Aa also said, “(it’s) as relevant in the 21st century as it was in the 17th.” We might want to read its “300 maxims on politics, practical tips for professionals, & prudent advice on personal life.”

I encourage you to ponder the idea to QWYA. It pertains to EFO. It could also pertain to your job. Since July 1 is the start of a new fiscal quarter, it could be an ideal time to hand over the reins.

OoM, what do you know about our diplomat who died in Yangon? The AP reports that a Thai woman is being held in what could be a homicide. Was it a lover’s quarrel or something political? Please keep me informed.

BYBS,