Thoughts After Memorial Day

Few would argue with the statement that technology has made the world smaller, bringing people in its far corners virtually face to face. What might be a logical corollary, however, that the technological revolution also has made the world friendlier, is highly debatable. In fact, it would seem that people in close proximity with similar roots but divergent beliefs have the most virulent disputes.

Memorial Day, which has just passed, reminds us of those who should never be forgotten. It also should remind us of how far the nations of the world have come since the last global war. Every small advance is welcome.

News from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration this month about a joint project with Japan is doubly welcome. According to NOAA, newly available data on oceanic surface wind direction and speed will make it possible to more accurately predict the path and intensity of hurricanes and other severe storms.

The data are observed by an instrument built by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Jet Propulsion Laboratory that is carried on a satellite developed, launched, and operated by the National Space Development Agency of Japan. An official of NOAA's Marine Prediction Center called the results a "major breakthrough."

Let's hope that eastern Long Island is safer as a result and consider that the world is safer because of the cooperation of former enemies.