On Character

I preordered General McChrystal’s new book the minute I heard about it. It arrived after I left town for a month-long trip, so I asked a friend joining me later in the journey to bring it. Unfortunately, she started reading it on the plane and has yet to give it up. I was able to steal a glance or two at the book jacket, but I haven’t read it yet. I can’t wait to dig into it.

The theme is timely. Americans will select new leaders at some point in the future, whether that is in three years or seventy, we do not yet know. My great hope is that we will make those decisions based less on policy preferences and more on the fundamental character of the individuals we choose to lead us. From the synopsis of the book:

“According to McChrystal, character isn’t something inherited or bestowed by education or status. Instead, it emerges from a series of choices – some mundane, others monumental – that reveal our capacity for virtue. It’s about living up to our beliefs as individuals, citizens, and fellow Americans, grounded in our convictions and the discipline we summon to uphold them. McChrystal challenges us to reflect on how we can embody our principles in every aspect of our lives, shaping not only our own character but also the fabric of our society.”

The character of our civic and political leaders shapes the fabric of our society. There are no easy answers or simple solutions to every problem we face. We can debate, challenge, compromise, and improve upon ideas by taking principled stands. We need leaders who inspire us by modeling the way in civic discourse and virtuous living. My students give me hope; they seem to understand what they want for their futures and have no problem expressing themselves. They are learning to become the type of leaders we need.

I had the honor of serving on the board of The Service Year Alliance with General McChrystal for a couple of years and am temporarily occupying the chairman’s seat from which he recently resigned. The friend who brought me General McChrystal’s book is sitting next to me, reading it as I write. She looks like she is about finished. Hoping I get it back. Go buy a copy for yourself.