Book of the Month

In March I read the newish biography of Colin Powell, Soldier. In writing this, I must say that because of Secretary Powell’s diplomatic readiness initiative I have a job. I should also say that I think it would be bad form for me to speak poorly of the current administration because ultimate, I too serve at the pleasure of the President.

With those caveats out of the way, it was nice to learn more of someone who I have admired for quite some time. I think that with Secretary Powell the admiration most people have for him is his commanding presence. I think that hearing him speak is something that inspires and uplifts. With that background, it was interesting to learn more about how he became who he is. I was most interested in his masterful working of the bureaucratic system that he worked in. Since the government is a group of bureaucracies, it would be good for me to learn from his experiences. The other thing I took away from the book is Secretary Powell’s positive outlook. He looks at challenges as opportunities and tries to serve others.

I also learned about the military outlook. Secretary Powell will always be a soldier and I think that colored his view of working with people. While I don’t always think that’s the best way to approach life, there are some times that my life would have been easier and better if I had swallowed my pride and turned and saluted.

All in all, I think that I would take this one out of the library, but I think it’s worth the read.