An Open Letter to the Vice President of the United States of America
Dear Mr. Vice President,
I have been contemplating writing this letter since I heard your speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention on 27 July.
Full disclosure: I am not a registered Democrat.
The first president that I can actually remember was Dwight Eisenhower. It was a different time then, growing up in the farmlands of Central Indiana. I never realized just how different things were, in the realm of politics, though, until this year, and that’s why I decided to write you.
My wife and I have lived abroad for the past 13 years. And, while I am grateful for all that America has offered me, it is with a great deal of sadness that I say that the political discourse in America has descended to a level that is not only embarrassing and unrecognizable to me, but terribly worrying, hence this letter.
Your speech reminded me of what it meant to be proud to be an American. I have studied and counseled leaders in many parts of the world for the past 35 years and I want to tell you that the example you have set by your actions, as you gracefully pass through the crucible of life, is an inspiration. It is an inspiration, not only in the sense that a leader inspires, but in the sense that you inspire a belief in integrity and character.
As we would say in the Midwest, you have aged well, Mr. Vice President. Your energy, enthusiasm, emotional approachability, integrity and common sense will indeed play a major role in your legacy.
I was losing faith in the quality of American politics and politicians until I heard you on the 27th of July. Thank you.
My hope is that the end of your term in office will be the beginning of a wonderful new chapter for you that you will share with us all.
If you are ever in Prague, please let me know. I would love to buy you a cup of coffee.
Sincerely,
Pepper de Callier
About the Author: Founder and Executive Director of Prague Leadership Institute, which was named “Best Corporate Leadership Coach Europe—2015”, by U.K. based Corporate Vision, Pepper de Callier, is one of the most respected senior executive coaches and authorities on leadership in Europe. Learn more about him at www.pragueleadershipinstitute.com
