Madeleine Albright - the Lady with the Iron Will

I just heard that Former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright passed away. Couldn't help but write a short note of my memory of her. Our endless discussions and her deep insights into world politics. Even if I did not always agree to her, still I could only admire her. She often reminded me of my great grandmother from Calcutta. An exceptionally intelligent and strong woman. After a long day of meetings or speeches, when people half her age would be running around looking for coffee or a break, she would be sitting straight, with full concentration and with her deep thoughtful eyes.

The last time when I physically met her was couple of years back at Munich Security Conference. She was often more of a listener than speaker, especially in the later years. Whenever the sessions ended, while everyone was busy networking. I would find her sitting at a corner with a glass of water and deep in her thoughts or just watching people. And when during our discussions, I would ask her one too many questions (since in my opinion she was a walking talking history book), she would never show annoyance and would answer them with the best of her knowledge. I will miss our discussions and I most certainly will miss her presence.

Rest in Peace dear Madeleine.