Say to Critics: Watch and See

In 2005, U.N. Secretary General Koffi Annan was struggling with a series of scandals and other challenges in his administration. I read this short quote in a magazine interview with him and wrote it down in my notebook:

Question: Senator Coleman says you are ‘damaged goods.’ What do you say to him?

Answer: Watch and see.

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I loved the calm, measured, determined response.

You don’t have to defend yourself, or prove yourself to anyone. Just tell them, “Watch and see.” Then go and do whatever you need to do.

Koffi Annan was able to successfully complete his term. Senator Coleman lost his race for re-election last year.

That's from Chris G. I love Annan's answer, too. Actions always speak louder than words.

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