It’s been an interesting few weeks culturally. I saw Madame Butterfly last week and this week heavy metal band Metallica. Yahooo! Hey, I might not be very religious, but I do have catholic tastes when it comes to music.
As I stayed quiet for Madam Butterfly and behaved like an aging rocker at Metallica I pondered the lessons inspirational, humorous, and motivational, business keynote speakers – Irish or not, might learn from both performances. (The references to motivational, humorous, Irish, Inspirational business keynote speakers are a gratuitous effort to gain search engine attention). Anyway, back to the lessons!
Did the performances have much in common? Well you felt exhausted after Metallica’s non-stop hard-driving performance while you slept (just a little) during Madame Butterfly. I don’t know what real opera buffs think but the length of some of the scenes in Butterfly was a weakness. It sometimes took too much time to get to the point which is a regular failure for keynote speakers – inspirational or not.
On the other hand Metallica were in your face all the time, rarely pausing for breath which is great for that audience. If there was one minor weakness in the performance of the heavy metal icons it was they operated at two speeds – fast and very fast. Keynote speakers who do not vary their performance, pacing, voice projection will lose their audience very fast.
Metallica and Butterfly both provided awesome music. OK, I know some of you might not have that opinion of … of Madame Butterfly. Metallica and Madame Butterfly have great longevity and status because they make a connection with their respective audiences – something that is critical for a motivational keynote speaker.
The world’s best selling heavy metal band provided another crucial lesson to the budding keynote speaker irrespective if she is an expert on foodservice, humor, inspirational, cancer – whatever. The band really "turned up." Once on stage, they performed like their lives depended on it making good visual contact with all sides of the arena as they pranced around the stage located in the center of the arena.
Many motivational keynote speakers rarely change their material and rehash the same material over and over. Metallica did play some really good old material but the bulk of the show was comprised with songs from their latest and really powerful CD Death Magnetic. The lesson for the up and coming and even seasoned inspirational keynote speaker – Keep creating new material and new products. You’ll stay relevant longer and people will come back again and again. Metallica have been playing Chicago since 1983. Long may it continue.
And in an effort to come up with a really snappy end line, I’d have to say Metallica Rocks, Madame Butterfly Flutters. As Metallica fans will know ‘And nothing else matters.’
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Spoof Obama Inaugural - (with a nod to JFK, FDR, LBJ, Abraham Lincoln, Bill Clinton)
Mr. Vice President, Chief Justice, President Cheney – sorry, President Bush, VP Cheney and friends.
Just 48 years ago another young skinny senator kid with a paltry senate record stood before you - John Fitzgerald Kennedy. His words have echoed through the ages. I recall those words when I say we should banish from this great land the logic of “Ask Not” as in - 'Ask Not what Bernie Madoff can do for you, ask what you can do for Bernie Madoff' or, as some might suggest ask what YOU can do to Bernie Madoff.
This indeed is a historic moment.
We must think bigger. We must go beyond the words of that fine upstanding Democrat Franklin Delano Roosevelt who said the only thing “we have to fear is, fear itself.”
We must think bigger.
Not only should we fear - fear itself but:
We should also fear a tanking economy:
We should fear high unemployment rates:
We should fear falling prices and as politicians:
We should fear most of all - Illinois District Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
We are going through tough times. Yes we are. Some worried Americans ask - 'Is the economy in depression?' I say to you – it depends upon what the meaning of ‘is’ - is.
My fellow Americans, a number of comments have been made about my godlike qualities and where I was born. It reminds me of a story about Lyndon Johnson. President Johnson once corrected a supporter who asked was he born in a log cabin. ‘Heck no,’ he replied, ‘You’re thinking of Lincoln. I was born in a manger.’
Me – a Messiah?
While I will not admit it, neither … will I deny it.
Some of the comments about my circumstance have occurred because of the three wise men. Three wise men who came bearing gifts (No, I do not mean Tony Rezko). I mean of course the three wise men - Warren Buffet, David Axelrod and Joe Biden who brought gifts of Gold, Frankly Sense and - Mirth.
I want to thank all of you who provided good wishes to me not least my Irish friends who I understand sing a song that goes “O’Leary, O’Reilly, O’Hare and O’Hara, there is no one as Irish as Barack Obama.”
Me - Irish?
While I will not admit it, neither … will I deny it.
However Ireland’s favorite drink – Guinness – must surely be a memorable symbol that we can all look to. Where else? - in such a confined space have we seen black and white come together in such a magical, wonderful combination – a combination of black and white that makes you believe - you can rule the world, yes a combination of black and white that helps you forget any problem. But we have not achieved full equality. We have not yet achieved full equality in this country and we will not know we have reached full equality until the chief diversity officer in a major Fortune 500 company is … a white middle aged male.
My ideas, my strength, my belief in American comes from you the people, the people who elected George Bush – twice. I would not be here today without your support, your ideas.
Your ideas, your words have give me strength. I recall early in the election campaign visiting a Campbell’s soup factory. While walking the production line speaking to carefully vetted factory employees to show that I related to the common man, I spoke with Dmitri Martin, a man whose parents emigrated to the United States penniless to live the American dream, a man who is struggling to make ends meet.
Asking penetrating questions at this soup factory I said:
“Dmitri, do you can French Onion soup? ”
He responded “Yes - we can.”
“And New England Clam Chowder”?
“Yes – we can”
“And Italian Wedding soup?”
“Yes - we can.”
“And Scotch Broth?”
"Yes - we can."
I left that factory with the seed of an idea. Yes - we can.
It also made me realize that this country is one large melting pot of different ethnic flavors and origins.
I have been elected on a platform of change. Even since my election there has been more of this. For instance, many of Bernie Madoff’s clients have been left with nothing, nothing but … change.
I want to address some words to my republican friends.
To Joe the plumber I say “Joe, pay your taxes.”
To Russ Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Ann Coulter and others, I paraphrase the words of that fine singer Paul Simon and say,
Hop on the bus Russ,
Don’t be a Yawn Sean,
Ann, Ann, Yes We can - Ann
And get yourself free.
I have spoken previously about bi-partisanship.
This great country was built on respect for people’s opinion, yes respect for people’s opinion, as long as it was the same opinion as your own. This great country needs more bi-partisanship. This great country needs more inclusiveness. As President, I want to and I will - include everyone. Yes everyone except Governor Rod Blagojevich.
My fellow Americans, I want this to be a presidency of hope - hope for amazing things.
As I take the office of President;
Yes - you can hope:
That your whites will wash whiter - Yes you can hope,
That green traffic lights will stay greener - Yes you can hope,
That someday a police car will come to a complete stop at a stop sign - Yes, you can hope,
that we move away from --- an economy of bankers, for the bankers, by the bankers.
Finally, you can hope that this fine country will see better and brighter days. Some fine Americans have noted that even since my election, the days are already getting longer!
Can I take credit for this?
My friends I will not admit it, neither - will I deny it.
Dream? Yes - we can. We can bring the sound of recovery, we can bring the Sound of Music back to America
Climb every mountain? Yes – we can.
Ford every stream? Yes – we can.
Follow every rainbow? Yes – we can.
‘Til we find our dream. Yes – we can.
God Bless America
Just 48 years ago another young skinny senator kid with a paltry senate record stood before you - John Fitzgerald Kennedy. His words have echoed through the ages. I recall those words when I say we should banish from this great land the logic of “Ask Not” as in - 'Ask Not what Bernie Madoff can do for you, ask what you can do for Bernie Madoff' or, as some might suggest ask what YOU can do to Bernie Madoff.
This indeed is a historic moment.
We must think bigger. We must go beyond the words of that fine upstanding Democrat Franklin Delano Roosevelt who said the only thing “we have to fear is, fear itself.”
We must think bigger.
Not only should we fear - fear itself but:
We should also fear a tanking economy:
We should fear high unemployment rates:
We should fear falling prices and as politicians:
We should fear most of all - Illinois District Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.
We are going through tough times. Yes we are. Some worried Americans ask - 'Is the economy in depression?' I say to you – it depends upon what the meaning of ‘is’ - is.
My fellow Americans, a number of comments have been made about my godlike qualities and where I was born. It reminds me of a story about Lyndon Johnson. President Johnson once corrected a supporter who asked was he born in a log cabin. ‘Heck no,’ he replied, ‘You’re thinking of Lincoln. I was born in a manger.’
Me – a Messiah?
While I will not admit it, neither … will I deny it.
Some of the comments about my circumstance have occurred because of the three wise men. Three wise men who came bearing gifts (No, I do not mean Tony Rezko). I mean of course the three wise men - Warren Buffet, David Axelrod and Joe Biden who brought gifts of Gold, Frankly Sense and - Mirth.
I want to thank all of you who provided good wishes to me not least my Irish friends who I understand sing a song that goes “O’Leary, O’Reilly, O’Hare and O’Hara, there is no one as Irish as Barack Obama.”
Me - Irish?
While I will not admit it, neither … will I deny it.
However Ireland’s favorite drink – Guinness – must surely be a memorable symbol that we can all look to. Where else? - in such a confined space have we seen black and white come together in such a magical, wonderful combination – a combination of black and white that makes you believe - you can rule the world, yes a combination of black and white that helps you forget any problem. But we have not achieved full equality. We have not yet achieved full equality in this country and we will not know we have reached full equality until the chief diversity officer in a major Fortune 500 company is … a white middle aged male.
My ideas, my strength, my belief in American comes from you the people, the people who elected George Bush – twice. I would not be here today without your support, your ideas.
Your ideas, your words have give me strength. I recall early in the election campaign visiting a Campbell’s soup factory. While walking the production line speaking to carefully vetted factory employees to show that I related to the common man, I spoke with Dmitri Martin, a man whose parents emigrated to the United States penniless to live the American dream, a man who is struggling to make ends meet.
Asking penetrating questions at this soup factory I said:
“Dmitri, do you can French Onion soup? ”
He responded “Yes - we can.”
“And New England Clam Chowder”?
“Yes – we can”
“And Italian Wedding soup?”
“Yes - we can.”
“And Scotch Broth?”
"Yes - we can."
I left that factory with the seed of an idea. Yes - we can.
It also made me realize that this country is one large melting pot of different ethnic flavors and origins.
I have been elected on a platform of change. Even since my election there has been more of this. For instance, many of Bernie Madoff’s clients have been left with nothing, nothing but … change.
I want to address some words to my republican friends.
To Joe the plumber I say “Joe, pay your taxes.”
To Russ Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Ann Coulter and others, I paraphrase the words of that fine singer Paul Simon and say,
Hop on the bus Russ,
Don’t be a Yawn Sean,
Ann, Ann, Yes We can - Ann
And get yourself free.
I have spoken previously about bi-partisanship.
This great country was built on respect for people’s opinion, yes respect for people’s opinion, as long as it was the same opinion as your own. This great country needs more bi-partisanship. This great country needs more inclusiveness. As President, I want to and I will - include everyone. Yes everyone except Governor Rod Blagojevich.
My fellow Americans, I want this to be a presidency of hope - hope for amazing things.
As I take the office of President;
Yes - you can hope:
That your whites will wash whiter - Yes you can hope,
That green traffic lights will stay greener - Yes you can hope,
That someday a police car will come to a complete stop at a stop sign - Yes, you can hope,
that we move away from --- an economy of bankers, for the bankers, by the bankers.
Finally, you can hope that this fine country will see better and brighter days. Some fine Americans have noted that even since my election, the days are already getting longer!
Can I take credit for this?
My friends I will not admit it, neither - will I deny it.
Dream? Yes - we can. We can bring the sound of recovery, we can bring the Sound of Music back to America
Climb every mountain? Yes – we can.
Ford every stream? Yes – we can.
Follow every rainbow? Yes – we can.
‘Til we find our dream. Yes – we can.
God Bless America
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Interesting Reads related to the Inauguration
The inauguration of Barack Obama is historic by any standards. For many older African-Americans it must be one of the momentous events in their lives and one that many would never have believed possible in the dark days of Jim Crow.
As a humorous inspirational keynote business speaker (sorry, I’ve got to use that hyperbole to attract search engines and anyone looking for a keynote speaker, humorous, inspiration, Irish, Chicago based etc!), I’ve read a lot of books on the Civil Rights era. Some months ago, I posted a review of Call to Conscience: The Landmark Speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr . Given what has transpired in recent days I thought it might be interesting to present it here again.
Other relevant material on this subject includes my review of Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement by Congressman John Lewis. This is one of my favorite books, written by a truly brave man.
Something that might also be of interest is Bill Clinton’s speech on What Would Martin Luther King Say – Remarks to the Convocation of the Church of God in Christ, November 1993
Following is the review of Call to Conscience.
This work is available in book form, CD and also available for download. I have it on my iPod. This is a true test to see if a download can wear out, because I listen to it a lot.
Note, some of the audio quality is not good. To fully appreciate King’s talent and speech construction, you do need the book. The advantage of the audio is that you can hear the real thing and appreciate this wonderful orator’s speech pattern, intonation and delivery.
Rosa Parks said that Martin Luther King told her he spent up to fifteen hours on sermon development. I believe it.
This book provided King’s speeches in chronological order and it is interesting to see how his style develops from the first speech referenced to his final poignant, prophetic address in Memphis, April 3rd 1968, the night before he was assassinated.
Three things strike me about this era as I go through the work.
1) The horrors, humiliation and fear which the “negro” community endured and which King fought so hard to overcome are painted graphically in some of his speeches. Probably the most poignant speech is the address at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Birmingham Alabama following the murder of four young children.
King’s words are powerful, full of pain, anguish, and controlled anger. But it is the audience response that hit me hard. In almost every other speech on this work, the reaction is upbeat and lively. Here, there is just pain and sadness in the intermittent responses of his congregation. This speech came after King’s acclaimed “I have a dream” speech and the march on Washington, which may have led the leaders of the black community to a misleading sense of hope for the immediate future.
2) The genuine Christian ethic that pervaded King’s thinking. He regularly extols his audience to “love” their persecutors. He does differentiate strongly between “mushy” love, but he continuously asks his audience, many of whom suffered dreadful hardship and pain during this era, to forgive their persecutors.
3) King was a brave man. Not just because of his defiance of the whole “Jim Crow” ethic which ultimately resulted in his assassination. This was a fate that probably would not have surprised him, given the murders of other activists including Medgar Evers. However, his bravest speech may well have been “Beyond Vietnam” April 4th 1967, where he stingingly indicted the United States for its involvement in the war. It was a war which he saw as “an enemy of the poor” because it diverted resources from the war on poverty. But his criticism was even more basic.
“We were taking the black young men who had been crippled by our society and sending them eight thousand miles away to guarantee liberties in Southeast Asia which they had not found in southwest Georgia and East Harlem. And so we have been repeatedly faced with the cruel irony of watching Negro and white boys on TV screens as they kill and die together for a nation that has been unable to seat them together in the same schools. And so we watch them in brutal solidarity burning the huts of a poor village, but we realize that they would hardly live on the same block in Chicago. I could not be silent in the face of such cruel manipulation of the poor.”
King knew the speech would be seen by Lyndon Johnson as a stab in the back. It also raised to an even greater level, the ire of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover who was paranoid about King’s activities.
King undoubtedly was an inspirational speaker and motivator. His speeches got better as his audience warmed to him. This, I think is proof positive, that a speech is not just about the words but the delivery of those words. The great speaker feeds of the audience, accepting applause almost as a fuel to deliver even greater energy. This is very obvious with his “I have a dream” speeches, (yes speeches) where great motivating words generate great audience reaction which generates greater energy from the speaker. Compare this to his address on receipt of The Nobel Peace Price, December 1964, where before a very high profile audience, he is restrained and projects little charisma.
Critiquing King is difficult and maybe even foolhardy. But on a few occasions I think he broke one of the key rules for a good speech – speak the language of your audience. For instance in his “Where do we go from here” speech to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference he said:
“My inspiration didn't come from Karl Marx; my inspiration didn't come from Engels; my inspiration didn't come from Trotsky; my inspiration didn't come from Lenin. Yes, I read Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital a long time ago, and I saw that maybe Marx didn't follow Hegel enough. He took his dialectics, but he left out his idealism and his spiritualism. And he went over to a German philosopher by the name of Feuerbach, and took his materialism and made it into a system that he called "dialectical materialism."
On this and a few other occasions, King I think liked to show the audience how clever he was.
The other area where he could genuinely be criticized is in the length of his speeches. Maybe this is part of the Baptist tradition he was raised in, but sometimes ‘less is more’. King also had a tendency to reference the fact that he was moving to a conclusion, one that would not occur for maybe another ten minutes.
These are minor criticisms of a wonderful motivational inspirational speaker whose greatest skill was the ability to paint pictures with words. His use of imagery and imagery enhancing adjectives brought so much life to his speeches. He truly is an inspiration to the keynote speaker (inspirational, humorous, motivational, business - whatever) who wishes to craft inspirational, motivating speeches.
As a humorous inspirational keynote business speaker (sorry, I’ve got to use that hyperbole to attract search engines and anyone looking for a keynote speaker, humorous, inspiration, Irish, Chicago based etc!), I’ve read a lot of books on the Civil Rights era. Some months ago, I posted a review of Call to Conscience: The Landmark Speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr . Given what has transpired in recent days I thought it might be interesting to present it here again.
Other relevant material on this subject includes my review of Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement by Congressman John Lewis. This is one of my favorite books, written by a truly brave man.
Something that might also be of interest is Bill Clinton’s speech on What Would Martin Luther King Say – Remarks to the Convocation of the Church of God in Christ, November 1993
Following is the review of Call to Conscience.
This work is available in book form, CD and also available for download. I have it on my iPod. This is a true test to see if a download can wear out, because I listen to it a lot.
Note, some of the audio quality is not good. To fully appreciate King’s talent and speech construction, you do need the book. The advantage of the audio is that you can hear the real thing and appreciate this wonderful orator’s speech pattern, intonation and delivery.
Rosa Parks said that Martin Luther King told her he spent up to fifteen hours on sermon development. I believe it.
This book provided King’s speeches in chronological order and it is interesting to see how his style develops from the first speech referenced to his final poignant, prophetic address in Memphis, April 3rd 1968, the night before he was assassinated.
Three things strike me about this era as I go through the work.
1) The horrors, humiliation and fear which the “negro” community endured and which King fought so hard to overcome are painted graphically in some of his speeches. Probably the most poignant speech is the address at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Birmingham Alabama following the murder of four young children.
King’s words are powerful, full of pain, anguish, and controlled anger. But it is the audience response that hit me hard. In almost every other speech on this work, the reaction is upbeat and lively. Here, there is just pain and sadness in the intermittent responses of his congregation. This speech came after King’s acclaimed “I have a dream” speech and the march on Washington, which may have led the leaders of the black community to a misleading sense of hope for the immediate future.
2) The genuine Christian ethic that pervaded King’s thinking. He regularly extols his audience to “love” their persecutors. He does differentiate strongly between “mushy” love, but he continuously asks his audience, many of whom suffered dreadful hardship and pain during this era, to forgive their persecutors.
3) King was a brave man. Not just because of his defiance of the whole “Jim Crow” ethic which ultimately resulted in his assassination. This was a fate that probably would not have surprised him, given the murders of other activists including Medgar Evers. However, his bravest speech may well have been “Beyond Vietnam” April 4th 1967, where he stingingly indicted the United States for its involvement in the war. It was a war which he saw as “an enemy of the poor” because it diverted resources from the war on poverty. But his criticism was even more basic.
“We were taking the black young men who had been crippled by our society and sending them eight thousand miles away to guarantee liberties in Southeast Asia which they had not found in southwest Georgia and East Harlem. And so we have been repeatedly faced with the cruel irony of watching Negro and white boys on TV screens as they kill and die together for a nation that has been unable to seat them together in the same schools. And so we watch them in brutal solidarity burning the huts of a poor village, but we realize that they would hardly live on the same block in Chicago. I could not be silent in the face of such cruel manipulation of the poor.”
King knew the speech would be seen by Lyndon Johnson as a stab in the back. It also raised to an even greater level, the ire of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover who was paranoid about King’s activities.
King undoubtedly was an inspirational speaker and motivator. His speeches got better as his audience warmed to him. This, I think is proof positive, that a speech is not just about the words but the delivery of those words. The great speaker feeds of the audience, accepting applause almost as a fuel to deliver even greater energy. This is very obvious with his “I have a dream” speeches, (yes speeches) where great motivating words generate great audience reaction which generates greater energy from the speaker. Compare this to his address on receipt of The Nobel Peace Price, December 1964, where before a very high profile audience, he is restrained and projects little charisma.
Critiquing King is difficult and maybe even foolhardy. But on a few occasions I think he broke one of the key rules for a good speech – speak the language of your audience. For instance in his “Where do we go from here” speech to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference he said:
“My inspiration didn't come from Karl Marx; my inspiration didn't come from Engels; my inspiration didn't come from Trotsky; my inspiration didn't come from Lenin. Yes, I read Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital a long time ago, and I saw that maybe Marx didn't follow Hegel enough. He took his dialectics, but he left out his idealism and his spiritualism. And he went over to a German philosopher by the name of Feuerbach, and took his materialism and made it into a system that he called "dialectical materialism."
On this and a few other occasions, King I think liked to show the audience how clever he was.
The other area where he could genuinely be criticized is in the length of his speeches. Maybe this is part of the Baptist tradition he was raised in, but sometimes ‘less is more’. King also had a tendency to reference the fact that he was moving to a conclusion, one that would not occur for maybe another ten minutes.
These are minor criticisms of a wonderful motivational inspirational speaker whose greatest skill was the ability to paint pictures with words. His use of imagery and imagery enhancing adjectives brought so much life to his speeches. He truly is an inspiration to the keynote speaker (inspirational, humorous, motivational, business - whatever) who wishes to craft inspirational, motivating speeches.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Inaugural Uncertainty
Today, we expect nothing but confidence and assurance from incoming presidents as they make their inaugural speech. It was not always so, with many of the earlier presidents expressing a (claimed) deep sense of humility and uncertainty about their new role. The following are some interesting expressions from inaugural addresses. You can read complete inaugural addresses at Inaugurals on www.IrishmanSpeaks.com . Brace yourself though as some of them are extraordinarily tedious and not the work on inspirational, humorous keynote speakers.
Thomas Jefferson: First inaugural – March 4th 1801
Called upon to undertake the duties of the first executive office of our country, I avail myself of the presence of that portion of my fellow-citizens which is here assembled to express my grateful thanks for the favor with which they have been pleased to look toward me, to declare a sincere consciousness that the task is above my talents, and that I approach it with those anxious and awful presentiments which the greatness of the charge and the weakness of my powers so justly inspire.
James Monroe: First Inaugural – March 4th 1817
I should be destitute of feeling if I was not deeply affected by the strong proof which my fellow-citizens have given me of their confidence in calling me to the high office whose functions I am about to assume.
As the expression of their good opinion of my conduct in the public service, I derive from it a gratification which those who are conscious of having done all that they could to merit it can alone feel. My sensibility is increased by a just estimate of the importance of the trust and of the nature and extent of its duties, with the proper discharge of which the highest interests of a great and free people are intimately connected. Conscious of my own deficiency, I cannot enter on these duties without great anxiety for the result. From a just responsibility I will never shrink, calculating with confidence that in my best efforts to promote the public welfare my motives will always be duly appreciated and my conduct be viewed with that candor and indulgence which I have experienced in other stations.
James Polk : March 4th 1845
I am deeply impressed with gratitude for the confidence reposed in me. Honored with this distinguished consideration at an earlier period of life than any of my predecessors, I can not disguise the diffidence with which I am about to enter on the discharge of my official duties. If the more aged and experienced men who have filled the office of President of the United States even in the infancy of the Republic distrusted their ability to discharge the duties of that exalted station, what ought not to be the apprehensions of one so much younger and less endowed now that our domain extends from ocean to ocean, that our people have so greatly increased in numbers, and at a time when so great diversity of opinion prevails in regard to the principles and policy which should characterize the administration of our Government?
Franklin Pierce: March 4th 1853
My Countrymen:
It is a relief to feel that no heart but my own can know the personal regret and bitter sorrow over which I have been borne to a position so suitable for others rather than desirable for myself. The circumstances under which I have been called for a limited period to preside over the destinies of the Republic fill me with a profound sense of responsibility, but with nothing like shrinking apprehension.
I repair to the post assigned me not as to one sought, but in obedience to the unsolicited expression of your will, answerable only for a fearless, faithful, and diligent exercise of my best powers. I ought to be, and am, truly grateful for the rare manifestation of the nation's confidence; but this, so far from lightening my obligations, only adds to their weight. You have summoned me in my weakness -- you must sustain me by your strength.
Thomas Jefferson: First inaugural – March 4th 1801
Called upon to undertake the duties of the first executive office of our country, I avail myself of the presence of that portion of my fellow-citizens which is here assembled to express my grateful thanks for the favor with which they have been pleased to look toward me, to declare a sincere consciousness that the task is above my talents, and that I approach it with those anxious and awful presentiments which the greatness of the charge and the weakness of my powers so justly inspire.
James Monroe: First Inaugural – March 4th 1817
I should be destitute of feeling if I was not deeply affected by the strong proof which my fellow-citizens have given me of their confidence in calling me to the high office whose functions I am about to assume.
As the expression of their good opinion of my conduct in the public service, I derive from it a gratification which those who are conscious of having done all that they could to merit it can alone feel. My sensibility is increased by a just estimate of the importance of the trust and of the nature and extent of its duties, with the proper discharge of which the highest interests of a great and free people are intimately connected. Conscious of my own deficiency, I cannot enter on these duties without great anxiety for the result. From a just responsibility I will never shrink, calculating with confidence that in my best efforts to promote the public welfare my motives will always be duly appreciated and my conduct be viewed with that candor and indulgence which I have experienced in other stations.
James Polk : March 4th 1845
I am deeply impressed with gratitude for the confidence reposed in me. Honored with this distinguished consideration at an earlier period of life than any of my predecessors, I can not disguise the diffidence with which I am about to enter on the discharge of my official duties. If the more aged and experienced men who have filled the office of President of the United States even in the infancy of the Republic distrusted their ability to discharge the duties of that exalted station, what ought not to be the apprehensions of one so much younger and less endowed now that our domain extends from ocean to ocean, that our people have so greatly increased in numbers, and at a time when so great diversity of opinion prevails in regard to the principles and policy which should characterize the administration of our Government?
Franklin Pierce: March 4th 1853
My Countrymen:
It is a relief to feel that no heart but my own can know the personal regret and bitter sorrow over which I have been borne to a position so suitable for others rather than desirable for myself. The circumstances under which I have been called for a limited period to preside over the destinies of the Republic fill me with a profound sense of responsibility, but with nothing like shrinking apprehension.
I repair to the post assigned me not as to one sought, but in obedience to the unsolicited expression of your will, answerable only for a fearless, faithful, and diligent exercise of my best powers. I ought to be, and am, truly grateful for the rare manifestation of the nation's confidence; but this, so far from lightening my obligations, only adds to their weight. You have summoned me in my weakness -- you must sustain me by your strength.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Beckham has 'IT'
To most Americans, David Beckham is a flash highly paid soccer player married to a pop singer and fashion diva. Most soccer fans would suggest that his period with LA Galaxy has not set the world on fire, indeed it has to date been a major disappointment.
Beckham’s flare for publicity hides his greatest characteristic. The guy has a world class attitude, strength of character and dedication to his craft that is not unlike that of golfer Tiger Woods. For the uninitiated, Beckham is on a two month loan to Italian soccer giants AC Milan. At 33 years of age, he knows he must prove his fitness to England coach Fabio Capello if he wants to play in the World Cup next summer. Many soccer commentators expected he would be a bit player for Milan. But selected for his first game this Sunday against Roma, he received rave reviews from the Milan manager and his co-players. Even the British press who love nothing better than to bash an icon were hugely impressed.
This is not the first time Beckham has made a comeback. Playing for England against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup quarter-finals, he was sent off for kicking out at an opponent. The tirade of abuse he received from the UK press and soccer ‘fans’ was sickening and there was real fear he would be forced to play abroad. You need to attend an English soccer game to appreciate the venom which opposing fans spew at opposition players. Beckham’s dismissal brought fan frenzy to new heights of profanity laced vitriol. Much of it was directed towards his wife Posh Spice.
Beckham stuck it out and eventually won over the English public.
It was a triumph of perseverance and can do attitude.
Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson eventually tired of Beckham’s high profile and sold him on to Spanish giants Real Madrid where now England boss Capello was installed as boss. After Beckham announced (mid season) he would be signing for LA Galaxy at season end, Capello famously announced that Beckham would never play for Madrid again. Beckham sucked it up, worked tirelessly and eventually forced a rare u-turn from Capello. The resilient Englishman played a vital part in Madrid ultimately winning the Spanish championship.
It was a triumph of perseverance and can do attitude. And now he has done it again in Milan.
Beckham has achieved much. He has achieved this because of talent and ‘IT.’
‘IT’ is perseverance and can do attitude.
‘IT’ is what we can all benefit from.
‘IT’ is what we all need in these trying times.
‘IT’ is what will help you.
Perseverance and can do attitude – how do you rate?
************
Chicago based Irish keynote speaker and business humorist speaks to corporations and associations on business growth and productivity interspersed with a large dollop of Irish blarney.
Beckham’s flare for publicity hides his greatest characteristic. The guy has a world class attitude, strength of character and dedication to his craft that is not unlike that of golfer Tiger Woods. For the uninitiated, Beckham is on a two month loan to Italian soccer giants AC Milan. At 33 years of age, he knows he must prove his fitness to England coach Fabio Capello if he wants to play in the World Cup next summer. Many soccer commentators expected he would be a bit player for Milan. But selected for his first game this Sunday against Roma, he received rave reviews from the Milan manager and his co-players. Even the British press who love nothing better than to bash an icon were hugely impressed.
This is not the first time Beckham has made a comeback. Playing for England against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup quarter-finals, he was sent off for kicking out at an opponent. The tirade of abuse he received from the UK press and soccer ‘fans’ was sickening and there was real fear he would be forced to play abroad. You need to attend an English soccer game to appreciate the venom which opposing fans spew at opposition players. Beckham’s dismissal brought fan frenzy to new heights of profanity laced vitriol. Much of it was directed towards his wife Posh Spice.
Beckham stuck it out and eventually won over the English public.
It was a triumph of perseverance and can do attitude.
Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson eventually tired of Beckham’s high profile and sold him on to Spanish giants Real Madrid where now England boss Capello was installed as boss. After Beckham announced (mid season) he would be signing for LA Galaxy at season end, Capello famously announced that Beckham would never play for Madrid again. Beckham sucked it up, worked tirelessly and eventually forced a rare u-turn from Capello. The resilient Englishman played a vital part in Madrid ultimately winning the Spanish championship.
It was a triumph of perseverance and can do attitude. And now he has done it again in Milan.
Beckham has achieved much. He has achieved this because of talent and ‘IT.’
‘IT’ is perseverance and can do attitude.
‘IT’ is what we can all benefit from.
‘IT’ is what we all need in these trying times.
‘IT’ is what will help you.
Perseverance and can do attitude – how do you rate?
************
Chicago based Irish keynote speaker and business humorist speaks to corporations and associations on business growth and productivity interspersed with a large dollop of Irish blarney.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Bush's Last Press Conference
When George W. Bush took office (finally) January 2001, he was on top of the world. He probably felt ‘it can’t get better than this.’ In that he was right. That is not to bash Bush. It is quite likely that the same will apply to Barack Obama when he is sworn in January 20th.
The presidency is likely the most onerous job on earth. Almost every incumbent ages far more than four years during his presidential term. Even though he was in his fourth term, FDR was only 63 when he died in office. In his biography of Harry Truman, Robert Dallek quotes FDR’s successor as saying “Nobody but a damn fool would have the job in the first place.” Truman was unprepared for office, but a man who grew into it. He went on to say “But I’ve got it, damn fool or no and I have to do it as best I can.”
It is well documented that Jackie Kennedy was not happy in the White House while Lady Bird Johnson wrote in 1967 "I do not know whether we can endure another four-year term in the Presidency.” Her husband LBJ is probably the President who suffered the most passionate antipathy from the US voter in recent times. He suffered dreadfully as he heard protestors shout “Hey, hey LBJ, how many kids did you kill today.” Johnson was one of the most vibrant characters to walk the Washington stage but the White House broke this larger than life workaholic, bullying taskmaster. Thus, on March 31st 1968, he announced to a surprised American public, "I shall not seek, and I will not accept the nomination of my party for another term as your President.”
Paradoxically, LBJ’s successor almost broke the presidency as a result of Watergate.
The two Presidents who genuinely reveled in the White House are Reagan and Clinton. The presidency for Reagan was the ‘Role of a Lifetime’ according to biographer Lou Cannon while Clinton in general (scandals aside) genuinely enjoyed the role.
There are few who would suggest that Bush has enjoyed the role. The outgoing President is one of the most likeable personalities to inhabit 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, but likeability does not a great president make. Watching Bush this morning in his final press conference, I have to admit I felt a little twinge of sympathy for him which is probably one of the more kind emotions directed to the man.
Even out of office, at least for some time, Bush will feel little good will. He likes to compare himself with Harry Truman who left office under a cloud.
Maybe he might take more comfort from Nixon who eventually did regain a level of respect and also Bill Clinton – much reviled by many during his term in office – who is now an enormously popular figure.
The presidency is likely the most onerous job on earth. Almost every incumbent ages far more than four years during his presidential term. Even though he was in his fourth term, FDR was only 63 when he died in office. In his biography of Harry Truman, Robert Dallek quotes FDR’s successor as saying “Nobody but a damn fool would have the job in the first place.” Truman was unprepared for office, but a man who grew into it. He went on to say “But I’ve got it, damn fool or no and I have to do it as best I can.”
It is well documented that Jackie Kennedy was not happy in the White House while Lady Bird Johnson wrote in 1967 "I do not know whether we can endure another four-year term in the Presidency.” Her husband LBJ is probably the President who suffered the most passionate antipathy from the US voter in recent times. He suffered dreadfully as he heard protestors shout “Hey, hey LBJ, how many kids did you kill today.” Johnson was one of the most vibrant characters to walk the Washington stage but the White House broke this larger than life workaholic, bullying taskmaster. Thus, on March 31st 1968, he announced to a surprised American public, "I shall not seek, and I will not accept the nomination of my party for another term as your President.”
Paradoxically, LBJ’s successor almost broke the presidency as a result of Watergate.
The two Presidents who genuinely reveled in the White House are Reagan and Clinton. The presidency for Reagan was the ‘Role of a Lifetime’ according to biographer Lou Cannon while Clinton in general (scandals aside) genuinely enjoyed the role.
There are few who would suggest that Bush has enjoyed the role. The outgoing President is one of the most likeable personalities to inhabit 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, but likeability does not a great president make. Watching Bush this morning in his final press conference, I have to admit I felt a little twinge of sympathy for him which is probably one of the more kind emotions directed to the man.
Even out of office, at least for some time, Bush will feel little good will. He likes to compare himself with Harry Truman who left office under a cloud.
Maybe he might take more comfort from Nixon who eventually did regain a level of respect and also Bill Clinton – much reviled by many during his term in office – who is now an enormously popular figure.
Thursday, January 08, 2009
The Wounded Celtic Tiger (temporary condition)
For the best part of twenty years, the Irish economy has been the miracle child of Europe, to such an extent it became known as the Celtic Tiger. Ireland consistently had the highest European economic growth rate and the lowest unemployment levels.
Today, the Celtic Tiger is wounded – much like the rest of the world. Dell has just announced that it will cease manufacturing in Ireland with a direct loss of 1,900 jobs to the city of Limerick, significant by any standards but a disaster for a city of 90,000 people. Earlier this week, Waterford Wedgwood announced receivership with the likely loss of 800 jobs to Waterford city.
These are tough times for a country that had got used to the good life. Ireland has long lost the Quiet Man feel although it is still a really fun, hospitable country to visit. Today’s Irish citizen is used to flying to New York for a weekend’s shopping (fueled by a ludicrously weak dollar / euro rate) or flying to Dubai for a short vacation. Property prices made Seattle or San Francisco look cheap. A 1,600 square foot house on a miniscule plot of land could sell for up to $2 million last year. As with the rest of the world, the property market has tanked.
There is no need to despair though. Ireland has significant advantages that will ensure long term prosperity. We have one of the best and deepest education systems in the western world. With some exceptions university education is free. This has paid dividends drawing major pharmaceutical and software companies to Ireland. Today’s piece of totally useless information: - the largest Viagra plant in the world is in Kinsale, County Cork. In recent years, Google and Facebook have located their European HQs in Ireland. The cosmopolitan face of Ireland is evidenced by the fact that Google’s Dublin office hosts over 40 nationalities speaking over 50 languages.
Yup, it is tough right now, but being an ever optimistic Irish keynote speaker, it will turn around and soon again Irish eyes will be smiling.
Today, the Celtic Tiger is wounded – much like the rest of the world. Dell has just announced that it will cease manufacturing in Ireland with a direct loss of 1,900 jobs to the city of Limerick, significant by any standards but a disaster for a city of 90,000 people. Earlier this week, Waterford Wedgwood announced receivership with the likely loss of 800 jobs to Waterford city.
These are tough times for a country that had got used to the good life. Ireland has long lost the Quiet Man feel although it is still a really fun, hospitable country to visit. Today’s Irish citizen is used to flying to New York for a weekend’s shopping (fueled by a ludicrously weak dollar / euro rate) or flying to Dubai for a short vacation. Property prices made Seattle or San Francisco look cheap. A 1,600 square foot house on a miniscule plot of land could sell for up to $2 million last year. As with the rest of the world, the property market has tanked.
There is no need to despair though. Ireland has significant advantages that will ensure long term prosperity. We have one of the best and deepest education systems in the western world. With some exceptions university education is free. This has paid dividends drawing major pharmaceutical and software companies to Ireland. Today’s piece of totally useless information: - the largest Viagra plant in the world is in Kinsale, County Cork. In recent years, Google and Facebook have located their European HQs in Ireland. The cosmopolitan face of Ireland is evidenced by the fact that Google’s Dublin office hosts over 40 nationalities speaking over 50 languages.
Yup, it is tough right now, but being an ever optimistic Irish keynote speaker, it will turn around and soon again Irish eyes will be smiling.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
There is NO unemployment
Alcoa’s announcement yesterday that it is to cut its global workforce by 13% or 13,500 jobs is just one more gloomy story on the job front. This morning, outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas said December’s job cuts - 166,348 - were the most for the last month of the year since the company began compiling data in 1993.
Those are the bald numbers, but if you are one of those who have been affected by this economy and have been laid off, you are NOT unemployed. As a job seeker, you must work on the basis that there is NO unemployment in your life. You may not have a salary or wages coming in right now, but all this means is that you are in unpaid employment. Huh!
If you are in job search, you are likely involved in THE most important job you will ever do in your life. Right!
The results of this job will determine what your income will be, whether you can afford vacation, send the kids to college and retire at some reasonable age. Right!
If you are doing this job, you are NOT unemployed.
I hate the word ‘Unemployed’ with a vengeance. Those of you who have visited my wonderful homeland Ireland will be well aware that the Irish are not averse to profanities and swearing.
One swear word I work really hard to get out of my vocabulary is ‘Unemployed.’ It is a word which does nothing for the self consciousness of the job seeker and should NOT be a description of the work pattern of the job seeker.
Call it what you will – Job Search, In Transition, Between Successes, Seeking the Future but do not use that ugly ‘U’ word.
If you are in job search, change your vocabulary. It will help you to find that well paying job.
It will help you stay energized and focused during what is undoubtedly a tough time, emotionally and financially. If you believe you are in Unpaid Employment, If you believe you are a NIGEP (that’s Non-Income Generating Employed Person), you will be more motivated, you will be more structured in your job search and when the day arrives that you get that first check from your next company, make sure that the energy level you bring to that new job is the same energy level you brought to your current unpaid employment. Get rid of the ‘U’ word today. A true NIGEP does not use it.
As a keynote speaker and business presenter, when I present SHEIFGAB the World, Eight Building Blocks to Successful Transition, I hit this concept early and often. I have challenged outplacement people, commentators and others on the use of it. Even the government should not be using it as more than anyone, they should hope the people on the register ARE in job search – ergo not **employed.
Remember and say it proudly, "I am a NIGEP, a Non-Income Generating EMPLOYED Person."
Those are the bald numbers, but if you are one of those who have been affected by this economy and have been laid off, you are NOT unemployed. As a job seeker, you must work on the basis that there is NO unemployment in your life. You may not have a salary or wages coming in right now, but all this means is that you are in unpaid employment. Huh!
If you are in job search, you are likely involved in THE most important job you will ever do in your life. Right!
The results of this job will determine what your income will be, whether you can afford vacation, send the kids to college and retire at some reasonable age. Right!
If you are doing this job, you are NOT unemployed.
I hate the word ‘Unemployed’ with a vengeance. Those of you who have visited my wonderful homeland Ireland will be well aware that the Irish are not averse to profanities and swearing.
One swear word I work really hard to get out of my vocabulary is ‘Unemployed.’ It is a word which does nothing for the self consciousness of the job seeker and should NOT be a description of the work pattern of the job seeker.
Call it what you will – Job Search, In Transition, Between Successes, Seeking the Future but do not use that ugly ‘U’ word.
If you are in job search, change your vocabulary. It will help you to find that well paying job.
It will help you stay energized and focused during what is undoubtedly a tough time, emotionally and financially. If you believe you are in Unpaid Employment, If you believe you are a NIGEP (that’s Non-Income Generating Employed Person), you will be more motivated, you will be more structured in your job search and when the day arrives that you get that first check from your next company, make sure that the energy level you bring to that new job is the same energy level you brought to your current unpaid employment. Get rid of the ‘U’ word today. A true NIGEP does not use it.
As a keynote speaker and business presenter, when I present SHEIFGAB the World, Eight Building Blocks to Successful Transition, I hit this concept early and often. I have challenged outplacement people, commentators and others on the use of it. Even the government should not be using it as more than anyone, they should hope the people on the register ARE in job search – ergo not **employed.
Remember and say it proudly, "I am a NIGEP, a Non-Income Generating EMPLOYED Person."
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Lazarus Lives
Once upon a time, long long ago, before the start of this century, as far back as BG (Before Greenspan), when I was but a lad in Ireland searching for that pot of gold under the rainbow (I’m still searching!), I remember when Paul Volcker retired as Chairman of the Federal Reserve. He was ancient then. Hey 60 seemed ancient then!
Now I see him popping up regularly as an advisor to President Elect Obama who tapped Volker to head the President's Economic Recovery Advisory Board. This big man (he is 6 foot 7 inches tall) looks phenomenal for 81 years of age and obviously in great mental health. Lazarus lives and I’m impressed.
Once upon a time, long long ago, before the start of this century, as far back as BW (Before Wagoner, Rick), when I was but a lad in Ireland searching for that pot of gold to buy my first car, Chrysler was about to go under. Then Lee Iacocca rode into Washington in 1979 and got his $1 billion dollar loan and saved Chrysler for another crisis. One of the key people involved in that turnaround was Gerald Greenwald. Greenwald held various executive positions with Chrysler including Chairman from 1985 to 1988. And now Lazarus like I see Greenwald regularly interviewed about the current Detroit bust. He looks great – well he is only 72, and I’m impressed.
What prompted this blog is the re-emergence of Leon Panetta (he’s only a kid of 70) as CIA Director. Do these guys ever go away and retire like our parents used to do? And then as I’m penning this, I notice that Tyson Foods – the world’s largest meat processor, has appointed a new interim CEO, who just happened to have retired from the company last century – 1998. Former former Chairman and Chief Executive Leland Tollett ( age 71)has been invited back to attempt a turnaround for a company that has failed to perform for quite some time.
You know as a key note speaker (foodservice, business growth, branding interspersed with a large dollop of Irish blarney), I regularly look to interesting, inspiring stories to gain the audience attention. Kudos to all these guys. They make me believe I haven’t even hit middle age yet!
So if you are looking for a humorous keynote business speaker who can present a keynote titled
Lazarus Lives, give me a call!
Now I see him popping up regularly as an advisor to President Elect Obama who tapped Volker to head the President's Economic Recovery Advisory Board. This big man (he is 6 foot 7 inches tall) looks phenomenal for 81 years of age and obviously in great mental health. Lazarus lives and I’m impressed.
Once upon a time, long long ago, before the start of this century, as far back as BW (Before Wagoner, Rick), when I was but a lad in Ireland searching for that pot of gold to buy my first car, Chrysler was about to go under. Then Lee Iacocca rode into Washington in 1979 and got his $1 billion dollar loan and saved Chrysler for another crisis. One of the key people involved in that turnaround was Gerald Greenwald. Greenwald held various executive positions with Chrysler including Chairman from 1985 to 1988. And now Lazarus like I see Greenwald regularly interviewed about the current Detroit bust. He looks great – well he is only 72, and I’m impressed.
What prompted this blog is the re-emergence of Leon Panetta (he’s only a kid of 70) as CIA Director. Do these guys ever go away and retire like our parents used to do? And then as I’m penning this, I notice that Tyson Foods – the world’s largest meat processor, has appointed a new interim CEO, who just happened to have retired from the company last century – 1998. Former former Chairman and Chief Executive Leland Tollett ( age 71)has been invited back to attempt a turnaround for a company that has failed to perform for quite some time.
You know as a key note speaker (foodservice, business growth, branding interspersed with a large dollop of Irish blarney), I regularly look to interesting, inspiring stories to gain the audience attention. Kudos to all these guys. They make me believe I haven’t even hit middle age yet!
So if you are looking for a humorous keynote business speaker who can present a keynote titled
Lazarus Lives, give me a call!
Monday, January 05, 2009
A Great Brand Struggles
When I was just a wee lad growing up in Ireland, there was a pride about the Waterford crystal brand that was unique. My mother took out the Waterford goblets about once every millennium and God help you if you broke one.
Today, Waterford announced it was going into receivership which in Irish financial terms is a cross between Chapter 11 and bankruptcy. The company has been decimated by a strong euro, changes in consumer demand and now the global credit crisis.
When former Heinz Chairman Sir Anthony O’Reilly acquired a significant stake in Waterford back in the nineties, few could have predicted the almost non-stop hemorrhaging the company would suffer. Acquisition of another financially challenged but superb English brand name Wedgwood did not provide the strategic oomph or supply chain benefits expected.
In a year (2008 or 2009 – take your pick) when many fine companies are likely to bite the dust, the demise of Waterford may not garner significant attention outside of Ireland. As a Chicago based Irish keynote speaker, I take particular pride in the successes of my country and incur a deep sorrow when I see it struggling right now. Today 800 people in the city of Waterford don’t know what the future holds for them, but it doesn’t look pretty. I wish them well and know that the indomitable Irish spirit will prevail.
On a personal note: I do not know Sir Anthony (Tony as he was in his Heinz days) O’Reilly, but I can relate one genuinely positive experience I had with the man who today resigned from the board of Waterford having invested and lost somewhere north of 400 million dollars in the company. When finalizing my book, Why Ireland Never Invaded America a few years back, a mutual acquaintance gave me O’Reilly’s contact details. I was brazen enough to send him a copy of my manuscript with a few suggested testimonials for the back cover. He ignored them all. To my surprise he obviously read the manuscript and then penned a wonderfully literate and prosaic testimonial. O’Reilly is a master story teller and business humorist and I truly do appreciate the following words which brilliantly captured the essence of Why Ireland Never Invaded America: “An enchanting mélange of good business sense wrapped in a mixture of Irish situation comedy and straightforward whimsy. …..I believe this book has a little something for everybody on life’s tumultuous voyage.”
An extremely literate man, I offer him these words from another wonderful Irish raconteur Oscar Wilde and know that he will live them – “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”
Today, Waterford announced it was going into receivership which in Irish financial terms is a cross between Chapter 11 and bankruptcy. The company has been decimated by a strong euro, changes in consumer demand and now the global credit crisis.
When former Heinz Chairman Sir Anthony O’Reilly acquired a significant stake in Waterford back in the nineties, few could have predicted the almost non-stop hemorrhaging the company would suffer. Acquisition of another financially challenged but superb English brand name Wedgwood did not provide the strategic oomph or supply chain benefits expected.
In a year (2008 or 2009 – take your pick) when many fine companies are likely to bite the dust, the demise of Waterford may not garner significant attention outside of Ireland. As a Chicago based Irish keynote speaker, I take particular pride in the successes of my country and incur a deep sorrow when I see it struggling right now. Today 800 people in the city of Waterford don’t know what the future holds for them, but it doesn’t look pretty. I wish them well and know that the indomitable Irish spirit will prevail.
On a personal note: I do not know Sir Anthony (Tony as he was in his Heinz days) O’Reilly, but I can relate one genuinely positive experience I had with the man who today resigned from the board of Waterford having invested and lost somewhere north of 400 million dollars in the company. When finalizing my book, Why Ireland Never Invaded America a few years back, a mutual acquaintance gave me O’Reilly’s contact details. I was brazen enough to send him a copy of my manuscript with a few suggested testimonials for the back cover. He ignored them all. To my surprise he obviously read the manuscript and then penned a wonderfully literate and prosaic testimonial. O’Reilly is a master story teller and business humorist and I truly do appreciate the following words which brilliantly captured the essence of Why Ireland Never Invaded America: “An enchanting mélange of good business sense wrapped in a mixture of Irish situation comedy and straightforward whimsy. …..I believe this book has a little something for everybody on life’s tumultuous voyage.”
An extremely literate man, I offer him these words from another wonderful Irish raconteur Oscar Wilde and know that he will live them – “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”
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