If there is a book for communications professionals to read in 2009, and read again and again, it is Peggy Noonan’s Patriotic Grace: What It Is and Why We Need It Now
Noonan’s book, published before the outcome of the 2008 election had been decided, is an argument for greater unity in a nation that is facing turmoil. It’s a call for calm, wisdom and maturity, and a roadmap for credible and effective governance.
We’ll be inaugurating a new president soon, and he’ll be leading a nation that is still divided in thought and spirit. I’ll be learning from what he says and how he says it, because the content and manner of his communication will inspire many to heroism, just as it will infuriate many others.
Watch the effects on people, and make note of the emotional triggers for their varied reactions, because there will be lessons for you in how you communicate in similar situations. We’re not all responsible for leading a nation, but your business, city or neighborhood can be just as divided and difficult. The simple lesson, too often forgotten: we are stronger when we work together.
Noonan writes, “So: we have much to do. And it all starts with a greater civility, a greater respect, both a higher – and deeper – tone to our political conversation.”
