Worldwide Stew

Replay Versus Reality

When Referees Can Hit Rewind

Though I’ve never been much interested in sports, I recollect the early days of instant replay. When a disputed play occurred, referees could review what happened and, sometimes, revise a call.

Was there a foul? Did the basketball shot leave the air in time to be counted? Did the baseball player’s foot actually touch home plate?

Instead of debating it in circles, instant replay offered something unprecedented: the option of seeing what really happened. Sports teams felt certain that calls of all kinds could be fairly reviewed. Initial referee decisions could be changed. At last, we’d have proof about who was right.

Distractions, attention, and focus

It was a beautiful winter night to take our dog out for a walk. Looking toward the west I saw the planetary alignment my wife had told me about earlier that day. I immediately pulled out my phone to capture a picture. But, the picture didn’t look just right. So, I opened a browser window to see what settings to adjust for night shots. I must have messed with my phone settings for ten minutes before the ridiculousness of the situation dawned on me.