The well-known actor Matthew McConaughey recently demonstrated to us all how to manage a stressful situation with elegance. She chose to ask talk show presenter Joy Behar a contentious political issue during their interview. McConaughey opted for tact and respect rather biting the bait and getting into a furious argument.
With a deft refusal to respond, McConaughey reminded us all how important it is to have civil conversations and look for common ground. Although talking politics in public is difficult, McConaughey’s elegant diversion made an effect on the audience. It was a potent reminder of how important politeness is in all kinds of communication.
We can all take a cue from McConaughey’s strategy in a world full with contentious discussions and heated arguments. Let’s pause to admire his grace and composure in the face of a difficult circumstance. I look forward to having future talks that are more substantive and courteous.
Watch the video below to witness the interview for yourself:
He was a real American. Famous country singer found dead this morning at his home in Texas.
Kinky Friedman, known for his satirical and often provocative style, has passed away at 79. A post on his social media announced, “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends. Kinkster endured tremendous pain & unthinkable loss in recent years but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung.”
Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman earned a cult following for his unique take on country and Western music. He released numerous albums, starting with “Sold American” in 1973, a record that laid the foundation for his career. Known as the “governor of the heart of Texas,” he even toured with Bob Dylan during the “Rolling Thunder Revue” and made history as the “first full-blooded Jew” to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Apart from his musical endeavors, Friedman was a prolific writer. He wrote detective novels and contributed as a columnist for Texas Monthly. He also ventured into politics, running for Governor of Texas in 2006 with the campaign slogan “My Governor is a Jewish Cowboy,” securing 12.6 percent of the votes among six candidates.
Born in Chicago and raised in Texas, Friedman studied psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. His passion for music led him to form King Arthur & the Carrots and later Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys. He described the latter as a “country band with a social conscience, a demented love child of Lenny Bruce and Bob Wills.”
Reflecting on his life, Friedman once wrote, “Somewhere in heaven, I’m sure there’s a quiet corner with a big easy chair, a bright floor lamp, a big stack of biographical books, and a few old dogs wagging their tails to the faint smell of cigar smoke.”
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