With the Olympic torch passing through nearby San Francisco recently, I thought having supporters of Tibet as guests would be timely, yet timeless. Andrew found a student group at a nearby San Jose State University, and all seemed well.

As we assembled the set in the studio, however, Andrew noted that the guests were late. He was surprised because he confirmed with them that morning. A phone call later brings the bad news. The group decided that now was not the best time to be talking about Tibet.

What?!? Really?!? Bewildering as that decision was, they did not even have the courtesy to tell us before our taping time. The station still charges us for studio time, even if we can’t make a show. If we had known, even a few hours ahead, we could have put together a replacement guest.

I’m appalled by the rudeness of this group of supporters of Tibet. Somewhere, the Dalai Lama is crying.