I have all sorts of analogies for why I read—current favorite is, “Books are the map of life; find yourself.” But when I read something totally new—Vietnam War history in this case—I find myself continually considering, “Wow. Had I known this earlier in life, I would’ve…” and then a fun imagination game plays out.

How about you? What information have you read which forced you to play the game, “Had I known…”?

I just ordered a “F%#* Communism” flag, probably for ceiling of garage, because of my reading. (The one created by Paul Krassner and John Francis Putnam in ‘63.) I share this so y’all won’t think I only read for its mental fitness.

It was mentioned (as a sign, not a flag) in an article about the “defoliation” AF squadron whose classically AF Pilot wit-filled motto was, “Only YOU Can Prevent Forests.”

I can hear you now. “Why?” And, “Don’t you have toddlers?”

Because as much delight as this game provides, I don’t want my kids to play it regarding such a pivotal war.

Seriously though, do comment below with any instances that have initiated the “Had I Known” game in your mind.