A word from "The Rocket" Rick Rodriguez

Beyond Survival by Gerald R. Coffee

By Rick Rodriguez

I've always been attracted to stories where the element of survival is stretched to the extreme.  This book is all about that and then some.  It's the story of Captain Gerald R. Coffee, a POW, in the Vietnam War.  It's the true story of Captain Coffee's capture and fight for survival in a POW camp.  It's also the story of the human will to fight and survive under the most dire circumstances.

I first learned of Captain Coffee's story at sales retreat that I attended.  There, Mr. Coffee, entertained us with his story but also shed the light on the risks posed by those in our armed forces.  He chronicled his experiences including torture, starvation, brain-washing, and every other atrocity the mind can imagine under these hostile conditions.

Beyond Survival Gerald R. Coffee " The only real security we have is the certainty that we're equipped to handle whatever happens to us.  Too often we try to build strength through position, possessions, family and friends, social and religious rituals--all the outer trappings by which we form our identities.  Stripped of them all, we have to draw on what is left: our basic sense of identity as human beings.  From there true security is born."  Often, I think back to when I scribbled these words down in my journal (1993), and how they became important when I slipped and fell in one of the many pitfalls I confronted.  It's especially important in these times where possessions seem to be where we draw our strength from.  Strip of them all!  What's left?  Just me and frankly that's all I need.  With this knowledge, I can focus on the problem at hand and know that I've got what it takes to confront it!

I read this book in 1993.  And, I have to stay that this book along with several others I read at the time inspired me to take on new challenges and fight off others.  In some ways, through Captain Coffee's experiences, the book, forced me to take a look at my own life.  Instead of asking why me (?), I began to explore new ideas like "show me, lord?"  Beyond Survival Gerald R. Coffee "When we cannot change a situation, resolution comes through the way we choose to handle it within ourselves.  To let go is not to deny but to accept.  Letting go moves us beyond the unproductive lament of "what if?" and "why me, Lord?"  To the constructive acceptance of "what is" and "show me, lord!" 

I never really knew the purpose of writing book reviews (hand written) in my journal (s) back in the early nineties.  But now, I guess, the reasons are clear to me.  Perhaps, by re-reading what I wrote back then--I can reuse--the ideas now!  But, also I can share here in my blog. My hope is that I inspire you to read this book!  It's truly an inspiring story of true American Hero!

Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips

By Rick Rodriguez

The American Civil War was arguably one of the most chaotic periods in our history. Yet through it all, Abraham Lincoln managed to keep the Union together and victorious. I read this this fascinating and insightful book back in 1993, and on occasion I harken back to its lessons when I get off track. The book reads like an instruction manual on anecdotes of what people will migrate to in times of turmoil or rather should at most any time.  Our current leader, Barack Obama, is clearly demonstrating these qualities as he moves us forward, or rather tries to move us forward!  Nonetheless, what appears painfully missing in some segments of our society is the leadership qualities demonstrated by our 16th President--Abraham Lincoln!

Journal Excerpt 2/8/1993 Rick Rodriguez paraphrased from Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips "Some single mind must be master, else there will be no agreement in anything. Compromise need not be cowardice. He was not insecure or felt threatened by others.  He thirsted and burned for distinction! He was driven! He was reliable and tirelessly persistent! His vision was simple and he often preached it."

One of the most important lessons I learned from this book was to get out and circulate among the troops.  In other words, get out and talk to people, make new friends and build new relationships!  How about that in this age of social networking? Lincoln of Leadership by Donald T. Phillips (1992 P. 25) "One of the most effective ways to gain acceptance of a philosophy is to show it in your daily actions. In order to stage your leadership style, you must have an audience. By entering your subordinate's environment--by establishing frequent contact--you create a sense of commitment, collaboration, and community.  You also gain access to vital information to make effective decisions." This was a particularly valuable lesson for me as it compelled me to get out of the office and get in front of as many clients as possible!  I'm not fond of the word subordinate but it was used that way in the book. This lesson took a bit of courage, commitment, and perseverance.  Later, however, these steps paid dividends in many areas of my life!

Often in life unjust criticism comes our way, and undoubtedly it is difficult to deal with it separately without taking it personally. Lincoln on Leadership Donald T. Phillips (1992 P. 66-72) "But every man of courage must, sooner or later, deal with unjust criticism.  Throughout his life, Lincoln was the object of jealousy, envy, and malice.  This was largely the result of his burning desire for achievement, which motivated him to excel. When a man hears himself somewhat misrepresented, it provokes him--at least, I find it so with myself; but when the misrepresentation becomes very gross and palpable, it is more apt to amuse him."  Yes, Mr. Lincoln, just laughed it off. And, of course, in our own lives that's a very difficult lesson to apply; however, I will say that I've learned that in addition to success being the best revenge.  Forgiveness is the ultimate compliment paid to a trespasser! 

Donald T. Phillips reveals the strategies and tactics Lincoln employed, and offers ways that leaders can use those same strategies to make their businesses successful in these tough economic times.

I purchased Lincoln on Leadership in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  Ironically, a focal point of the American Revolution.  Lincoln on Leadership is 173 pages.  I read it in February of 1993.

Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift

By Rick Rodriguez

Gulliver's Travels is a must read for any student of literature and history.  In fact, it is probably necessary to read this book simply to understand human nature.  Originally published in 1726, the book is considered a timeless classic; nonetheless, there is nothing simple about reading a book conjured up  within the mind and imagination of Jonathan Swift. 

I found it comparable in many ways to Cervantes' classic Don Quixote.  In fact, I was following a pattern of reading classic books in the time frame of their creation in order to understand the era of their publishing.  In other words, by reading books near the original publish date, the reader, can evaluate a book in the context of the era in which it was created.  According to the book The Well Educated Mind: A guide to the Classic Education You Never Had by Susan Wise Bauer, reading classic books in this manner is the best way to retain the work. I certainly don't disagree with this method of study.  I will say that I will recall Gulliver's Travels and Don Quixote as a result.

So, what about Gulliver's Travels and what will I remember of it?  Well, certainly the writing is impressive.  Clearly, at times, the reader will find the story difficult to follow.  Moreover, the neophyte might find pronouncing the following: Blefuscuans, Brobdingnags, Glumdalclitch, and Houyhnhnms a bit on the difficult side.  I found the Author adroit in fully describing each encounter with the characters in the story.  And also precisely describing human nature (?).  Here's an example of a Lawyer's dilemma: Swift (P. 229 Penguin 1726) "I said, there was a society of Men among us, bred up from their Youth in the Art of proving by Words multiplied for the Purpose that White is Black, and Black is White, according as they are paid.  To this Society all the rest of the People are Slaves.  For example, if my Neighbour hath a mind to my Cow, he hires a Lawyer to prove, that he ought to have my Cow from me.  I must then hire another to defend my Right, it being against all Rules of Law that any Man should be allowed to speak for himself.  Now, in this Case, I who am the true Owner lie under two great Disadvantages.  First, my Lawyer being practised almost from his Cradle in defending Falsehood, is quite out of his Element when he would be an Advocate for Justice, which as an Office unnatural, he always attempts with great Awkwardness, if not with ill Will.  The second Disadvantage is, that my Lawyer must proceed with great Caution, or else he will be reprimanded by the Judges, and abhorred by his Brethren, as one who would lessen the Practice of the Law.  And therefore I have but two Methods to preserve my Cow.  The first is to gain over my Adversary's Lawyer with a double fee, who will then betray his Client by insinuating that he hath Justice on his Side.  The second way is for my Lawyer to make my Cause appear as unjust as he can, by allowing the Cow to belong to my Adversary; and this, if it be skillfully done, will certainly bespeak the Favour of the Bench."  An interesting paragraph to say the least, but please bear in mind this is circa 1720.  How consistent have we been throughout human history?  Is Swift describing human nature through his assessment of lawyers?

So much more could be said about this book.  Frankly, however, I need to reread it in order to fully grasp its lessons.  Did I enjoy it?  Yes, but not wholeheartedly, Jane Eyre and Don Quixote are far more enjoyable to read, and more memorable.  Yet, in fairness to the work, my comprehension needs to improve in order to fully understand difficult books, and the Author's intended meaning.

Gulliver's Travels, Penguin Classics edition, is 271 pages.  I read it in late 2008 and completed it in early 2009.

The Spirit of the Marathon by Gail Kislevitz

By Rick Rodriguez

I'm a runner!  So, it's easy for me to like a book about marathons.  I bought this book some time ago, and read a bit and put it down.  Another book, and another half-hearted attempt at finishing it.  But alas, I did finish it (today), and it provided me what I needed--a boost!  I'm reinvigorated!  Am I ready to challenge the marathon again?  Perhaps, but before I make that awesome commitment let me share with you a few thoughts on this book, briefly.

I recommend it for the 1st time Marathon runner, and those of you that want to learn a bit about why people put themselves through such a grueling experience.  The book offers this by describing the experiences of runners in brief essay format.  The good thing about the book is it provides a broad spectrum of runners retelling their stories, not just elite athletes.  So, much can be gained by learning about the marathon, and deciding whether you are up for the challenge!

Spirit of the Marathon (2003) "People have it too easy in today's world.  They don't know what it's like to work really hard and make sacrifices.  That's why everyone thinks I am so amazing to be running at my age.  Heck, anyone can do it if they want it bad enough.  I was never given anything in this world.  I've had to fight for everything I ever had, including the marathon.  It all boils down to hard work and a bit of luck.  That's what makes the difference.  I plan to keep running marathons until I can't walk.  When I finish a race I am the happiest man in the world."  Abraham Weintraub 92 years of age.  Ran 1st marathon at age 80!

The Spirit of the Marathon is 269 pages.  I read it in August of 2008.

Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

By Rick Rodriguez

I love books that inspire me!  Three Cups of Tea is just that type of book.  The story is about one man's mission to promote peace...one school at a time.  How Greg Mortenson arrives at the point in his life where he becomes involved in a grander purpose is this story.  It's the tale of rising from the doldrums to the peaks of K2 (one of the world's largest mountains), and engaging in a culture deemed alien and hostile by many, and overcoming a sensational amount of obstacles along the way.  As an American in a foreign country, and aside from the cultural differences, he encounters traditional methods of doing things where the American way is not always welcomed or understood.

The issue I have with this book is the seemingly insurmountable challenge Mortenson confronts in attempting to establish schools at the behest of local warlords in Afghanistan.  Let's face it, in some  respects, the Afghan culture is hell bent on keeping women subservient: old traditions die hard!  This one appears like it will never die!  Of course, it is one that I would like to see fade into the past, but even optimism won't overcome this terrible tradition.  Naturally, education is the answer and Mortenson does well infiltrating villages deprived of this basic benefit us Americans seem to take for granted.

The book emphasizes that relationship building is the key to any human collaboration.  However, in some ways Mortenson must deal with his ethnocentric beliefs and their invalidness in this country.  Nonetheless, the right people show up at mostly the right time to further extend his mission in Afghanistan.

I enjoyed reading this book.  The text is somewhat smaller point, and naming the local venues, cities, towns, and villages gets a bit laborious to read.  Nonetheless, the descriptions provide detail and insight into the terrain, territory, and danger in the region the Author encounters.

 Three Cups of Tea is 331 pages. I read this book in July/August 2008.