They were late to the flat-panel party. They found themselves being eclipsed rapidly without a replacement plan in place.

We came out flat early. I called a timeout and had a little disagreement with them. They got themselves motivated and started playing better defense. The defense in the second and third quarter was just phenomenal.

The thorniest issue of late is that Merkel's shadow finance minister wants a 25 percent flat tax and no loopholes as a way to stimulate the economy. The left says it will mainly benefit the rich, and some among Merkel's ranks object too.

I don't have a game plan. I never did, and it's too late to have one even if I wanted to.

I was a shy kid, a late bloomer. At 22, I was probably 16 emotionally.

It is too late."

The old man shook his head. "It is never too late or too soon. It is when it is supposed to be."

He smiled. "There is a plan, Dor.