Weary Of Wikileaks (Kittredge | Vermont Public Radio)

[struggle4progress]

... Diplomacy, as defined by Webster's Collegiate Dictionary is: "the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations" and "skill in handling affairs without arousing hostility: tact" ...

We don't program robots to conduct diplomatic negotiations; robots aren't great at tact and dances of quivering delicacy. Instead, we send into the fray people whom we trust will act on our behalf with grace and integrity. Richard Holbrooke comes quickly to mind. Do they stumble and explode and, off the record - wait, that's not possible anymore is it? But did they let their hair down in private? I hope so.

Believe it or not, there are things I don't want to know ... And I honestly don't care what some Under Secretary quipped about someone.

I want to trust those who try and secure a just and peaceful world, and I'm reluctant to dismiss them for their humanity. Instead, I'm grateful for their efforts to address the current situation by talking with other leaders and endeavoring to affirm tender and volatile relationships both publicly and - yes - in private, too.

http://www.vpr.net/episode/50125/