First, Friedman seems a good role model for me, both as a writer and as a person. In his writing, Friedman does exhaustive research to support his conclusions, taking the reader step by step along the same path he followed so that, despite the complexity of the subject matter, understanding becomes enjoyable. As a person, Friedman addresses the same topics being debated across America, topics that produce such extensive vitriol and divisiveness, without value judgments.
Second, I love the title; it says nothing and everything about the book. When I first unwrapped the book (it was a birthday present), I had no idea what the book was about. Nice! But within a few dozen pages, the intent was clear, not because it revealed the topic but because it established a mind set that is contrary to the hectic lifestyle that is so prevalent today. Thanks for being late is the exact opposite reaction most people receive when they arrive after a designated meeting time, a reflection of the "time is money" perspective that rules all business, hence America itself, and the accepted value judgment that associates being late with improper time management or plain rudeness.
And finally, the reason for Friedman's gratitude to the occasional friend that is late; they have inadvertently provided the author time to step outside his regimented schedule to look around, smell the roses if you will, and/or reflect on his life, his actions, his future.
One of the most difficult things to do in life is to look objectively at the events which surround us, whether those events are effecting us personally or globally. It is a very rare ability to be able to recognize the pivotal times of our lives or our society; more likely we don't know the significance of a moment when it is occurring or just as likely, overemphasize a particular event through the prism of ego-centrism or nationalism. Self reflection is an important tool in this endeavor, but a tool that seems to have been removed from the toolbox in this age of the 24 hour news cycle and ever accelerating forces that are changing everything that is important in our lives.
Thank You for Being Late reminds us of the importance of time without the incessant buzz of a cell phone or the latest viral tweet or the most recent inane facebook entry where we can argue among two choices that have no real relevance in our lives. And, if I am to believe in its subtitle. will provide me with a positive spin on a world that is experiencing exponential change across a variety of fronts.
Nice!!
No comments:
Post a Comment