Will The Pentagon Be Unbroken?

"Reports that say that something hasn't happened are always interesting to me, because as we know, there are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns -- the ones we don't know we don't know."

--Former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld


When I read Mr. Rumsfeld’s quote (which is obviously spoken in the Cro-Magnonese language) I feel that this quote should be in all dictionaries and thesauruses as the antonym for the word…“clarity”. I don’t know about you, but I like clarity…Clarity in actions, clarity in words, and clarity of purpose. Knowing what people are actually doing, saying, and what their goals are, makes me happier than Paris Hilton finding out that her test for syphilis came back negative. Truth, Clarity, and the American Way…That’s good stuff.

Now, I understand that things cannot always be perfectly clear. There is always a chance that informed speculation, insightful prediction, and many times a gut feeling come into play when expressing a statement, position, or policy. I can accept that and expect that from adults, especially from people in prominent positions.

With that said, one thing that has impressed of late is that my twelve year old son Ryan has matured quite a bit of late and has honed his skills of informed speculation, insight, and yes, clarity. Nearly every time I go over to see Ryno he is shooting hoops in the driveway. I will say, “Still working hard I see.” He will respond, “If I do Dad, I may make it to the NBA or at least get a scholarship.”…Well planned out son.

Last month his mom had a birthday. A couple of weeks prior to it, I asked him what he wanted me to pick up for him to give to her. He said, “Could we pick up the DVD of "Wild Hogs" for her”. When I asked him why, he said, “She has seen the commercials and it makes her laugh.”…Good observation son.

This past Saturday instead of playing basketball all morning he asked if I could help him study for his math test that took place yesterday. He said that if he got off to a good start, it would make things easier as the school year went on and he would be able to concentrate on basketball and still get good grades…Purpose + Action = Mission Accomplished. Excellent Little Man!!

I picked Ryno up from school yesterday and I asked him how he thought his Math test went. He told me that he was well prepared because he and I had gone over the test material and that he felt confident that he did very well. I smiled not only because he was sure that he did well but also because his statement proved that when purpose, planning, and action come together, it results in a clear and succinct response.

Upon returning home, I turned on the news and watched the Senate question Gen. David Petraeus on the progress in Iraq. Senator John Warner twice asked him if the current strategy in Iraq will make America safer. After dodging the question the first time, Petraeus answered, “I don’t know actually…” My mood went from the glee of a proud dad to that of a cynical SOB.

General Petraeus, if my son can provide me with his clarity and purpose, you more than anyone need to do the same. You need to provide it to me, the American people, and most importantly to those men and women who are serving and dying within the crucible that is Iraq. Suck it up, give us the truth, and yes, I can handle it. Give us some clarity damn it!!

And now folks if you’ll excuse me, I have to speak with the Homeland Security agents that are at my doorstep…Cheers!!

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