Dose of perspective

It's easy to sometimes think of world events not really having much of an effect on our lives in the United States.

Then something happens that brings it home.

The latest example comes from the Middle East where Israel and Hezbollah are waging war. Most of that war is affecting Lebanon. Most in the United States are watching this one from the sidelines.

You may not realize it, but a former LSU basketball player, Brian Beshara has been playing basketball in Lebanon. Beshara is on that country's national basketball team and will be playing in the world championships beginning on Aug. 19.

For now, Beshara is safely out of harm's way with the Lebanese national team. But, as you read Kevin Sherrington's column, Beshara will have some decisions to make about his hoops future.