Letter: Powell had advice for Americans

I was on page 198 of Colin Powell’s book “My American Journey” when he passed away on Oct. 18. After finishing the 600-page book, I made note of some sentiments I felt needed to be remembered.

For politicians at the highest level, he offered the following: Better to admit mistakes than be caught in one. The will to build a nation originates from within its people, not from the outside.

For the military: Commanders make the difference, and the best ones have the trust of the troops. Do not start without being clear what to achieve and how — prepare to win, or don’t go. To achieve excellence in big things, develop habit in little things.

In personal life: All work is honorable — someone is always watching. Don’t allow your position to become the whole of your existence.

To young people: Dare to take the hardest path of work and commitment that leads somewhere.

The core of his beliefs in America are centered in family, whether it be the community or the military. His belief was there is a “sensible center” that could emerge as a third party in the American political spectrum. There is much more to capturing the essence of Gen. Powell’s book, but I believe I will be a better American having read it.