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Trying to make sense of things by looking at causes and understanding their effects. Using science to discern what's real and relationships to determine what's of value. Curious about everything. www.samanthaclemens.com

Sweetbreads and whips

When meeting with Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany, Obama learned a new phrase, according to Maureen Dowd:

“When we were talking about Iran,” he told me, “it turns out that carrots and sticks in German is sweetbread and whips, which I thought was a little more evocative.”

I said it sounded like a skit with Ali G, sitting on a settee, talking to Madam Chancellor, the “Iron Frau,” about whips.

“That’s the equivalent German expression,” he continued, with an amused smile. “That was a little cultural lesson. Sweetbread and whips. I thought, man, we’re in Berlin …”

I love that.  I love that Obama picked up on it.  I love that he passed it along to Ms. Dowd.  I love that he’s interested in and picks up on cultural nuances.  This is what it takes to be a successful global leader.  Curiosity.  Awareness.  A sense of humor.

Good luck with going negative Mr. McCain.  It’s never going to fly.


Posted by Sam on Jul 31 2008 under Politics



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