Leadership

SusanD's response to a My Left Wing diary about what it takes to be Commander in Chief

...nobody knows what they'll have to face as CIC because Bush/Cheney have been so secretive. Who knows what tangled mass of snakes awaits them?

What qualities must you have to deal with what is unknown? I would think a steadiness would be necessary. Not decisions make in a temper, or for personal reasons (like Bush). Good judgment, of course. Willingness to listen to experienced people (unlike Bush) The ability to weigh consequences and long-term effects (unlike Bush). The self-confidence to change course if you see your plans are not working, or are having unforeseen consequences (unlike Bush). A larger view of the United States as one country among many, not a view of "U.S. uber alles". A willingness to cooperate with other countries rather than ruling them. The guts to recognize REAL dangers, to guard against them, and to respond appropriately to REAL, not imagined, threats.

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