I remember reading once about a group of troops who were waiting for both reinforcements and supplies. Things weren't desperate but they were getting close. They'd radioed headquarters several times and were finally given these instructions. "Troops and supplies are currently being deployed. Suggest you procure a pair of binoculars, go out on the roof and keep your ears to the ground."

I've loved binoculars ever since I was a kid. Early in our marriage, I had to have a pair. They weren't very powerful but owning a pair of binoculars was one of those guy things you just had to own. I bought a better pair a concert we went to a few years ago.

Binoculars help you see something up close. They bring that which is distant in close. Therefore, they are a good metaphor for looking into the futur…