Running to the Roar
The Example of Matt Tiabbi
I watched Matt Tiabbi’s live stream yesterday. I like that guy. Who wouldn’t? He’s so normal. Lots of “Um’s” and looking off into space for a moment as he searches for words, sometimes stammering at the beginning of a sentence, but always pushing through to make his point. The way he talks is a reflection of how his mind works. You can see him traveling multiple paths of complexity and nuance, making choices along the way, ensuring that what he has to say comes out just the way it should. All unrehearsed. Or seemingly so.
He’s actually a relaxing kind of bloke. And seems totally unimpressed with his own celebrity.
The most important reason I like him is this: he works his ass off, is beholden to no one, is relentless and unapologetic in pursuing the truth, and he’s not afraid to call bullshit. I’ve starting listening to his weekly chat with Walter Kern … what a treat it has been. Their relationship is wonderful. Two like-able guys talking about daily life incidents to warm up, and then really drilling into the most difficult topics of our current day. They hold nothing back. And I love it. Walter has lived long enough to have garnered great wisdom and developed brilliant insights … resonating insights that surprise and move me down the path of understanding. If he were a film maker, I’d compare him to Woody Allen, except the topics are different and the implications of Walter’s brilliant observations are far more serious in a society that aims to remain civil.
Now, all compliments and syncophantic accolades aside, it’s important to notice a few things. Matt Taibbi is seemingly impervious to intimidation. Yes, he spontaneously displays annoyance and irritation at times, but it’s usually about journalists not doing their actual jobs, or government officials spewing lies and propaganda for some perceived political advantage that will undoubtedly end up hurting Americans. So, this makes him something like a lightning rod.
I used to be a lightning rod; calling out the stuff getting in the way of true and honest progress in solving real problems for the greater good. Or so I told myself. I look back and wonder where the chutzpah came from … and where it went … because there remains no sign of it now.
And that is a sad statement for me. I suppose there may be others like me.
So … I’m making a pre-New Year-resolution. Forgive me for stating it in the negative, but for me, it works better that way.
“Don’t be a coward!”
1When I say those words to myself, the Almighty immediately shows me what I’m afraid of, and, hence, my specific duty to be performed. There is nothing more to do but run to the roar.
Thanks Matt. You’re a good example. And a nice guy.
In other words, I don’t have to sit around contemplating my navel trying to figure out what great act of bravery I might engage in. It’s right there in front of me, and it’s probably something I’m afraid of.