"Can anyone explain to me why getting a passport to travel with is such a big deal for Americans?

Is it that they are by definition so trustworthy, honest and virtuous that they don't need to comply with international norms? (Like observing the nuclear non-proliferation treaty, paying dues to the UN, joining the International Criminal Court, believing in climate change, etc.)? Or is there a more subtle reason that I'm missing?" (link)

"Nice to see today's reports that the Pope is planning to abolish "limbo". Not the Caribbean ritual dance, of course, but that grey area somewhere between heaven and hell where unredeemed souls are said to languish. . . ." (link)

My buddy Jeremy Taylor was in full-on snark mode yesterday. Good for him.