J.D.M. James Stewart author of Being Prime Minister was a most interesting speaker at the recent Canadian Club of Halton dinner/speaker event. Held at the Oakville Conference Centre his insight and commentary about Canadian Prime Ministers proved an entertaining evening for all. It speaks highly of Stewart as a teacher of Canadian History when his student brings their parent to hear him speak.
His introductory quote from Lester Pearson was a thought inspiring way to start his presentation, “Prime ministers require the hide of a rhinoceros, the morals of St. Francis, the patience of Job, the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the leadership of Napoleon, the magnetism of a Beatle and the subtlety of Machiavelli.” Wow! Who knew.
Everyone knows the improbability of one person, let alone twenty-three, owning all of those characteristics. Given this perspective, it was an enlightening evening where the brightest moments reminded us of the every day commitments made by 22 men and one woman to hold Canada’s supreme office. A truly delightful evening and most recently an engaging read into even more, lesser-known characteristics of being Prime Minister. They are only human after all, but nevertheless care deeply for Canada. The book, Being Prime Minister, is available at Different Drummer Books.
Canadian Club speakers volunteer their time and expertise at no charge. To acknowledge their generosity, each are given a selection of quality wines from a Niagara winery and a $500 donation to an organization chosen by each speaker. Stewart chose “The 2 Intelligence Company Senate” a non-profit organization devoted to enhancing and enriching the lives of past and serving soldiers and officers of 2 Intelligence Company.
The Canadian Club of Halton presents a dynamic forum to explore issues that matter most to Canada. It provides a welcoming social environment for inquisitive, influential, and engaged Canadians. The Canadian Club is an opportunity for all who share a keen interest in contemporary Canadian life and who seek context, perspective and a deeper level of understanding. The club promotes Canadian identity by providing notable, knowledgeable and celebrated speakers on a wide variety of subjects. It is a volunteer-driven not-for-profit organization.