Madeleine Albright

When Madeleine Albright was confirmed as Secretary of State in 1996, I was a
few months into my first year at college, and I payed no attention. But in the
years since, I am enamored of her whenever I see her.

Listening to Radio Times this morning in the car, (the podcast version will no
doubt be posted on the Radio Times website soon) I heard Ms. Albright expound
on our (the US's) relationship with the rest of the world. Her manner was sassy
but also incredibly refined and respectable. During the course of the discussion,
she summed up the US's responsibility to use its undeniable power for the good
of all by saying something close to:

"Look, whether you learn it from the Bible or Batman, from those to whom much
is given, much is expected."

And I thought, look at this woman who can take a bible passage and redirect it
to fans of comic books and action movies. Look at this charismatic, well-spoken
woman who has an incredible insight into the affairs of the US and the world.

Why isn't SHE running for president? On the walk from my car to the
apartment, I couldn't figure out why no one was making her at least TRY for a
nomination...

Wikipedia gave me the answer-- she's not a natural born citizen of the US.
Phooey. But all is not lost because there's lots about her life that is completely
inspirational to me, including the fact that she was raising kids while getting a
PhD and generally being a superstar of all things international. I also followed
the link to her 2007 Commencement speech at Wellesley, which is a wonderful,
quick read.

Madeleine Albright, welcome to my personal hall of heroes. You are lovely and
important.

Posted by jvoris at January 29, 2008 12:12 PM