Rumsfeld's Rules: His Rules: (Summary of 16 other messages)

This is only a placeholder.

Sorry it took me over 16 months to finish and Update this summary of RUMSFELD's RULES

I only wrote it to discuss the Privatization of the army, and the deficiencies of the CURRENT BUSH administration
(Written/compiled 9/18/07) from stuff I wrote and commented on in APRIL of 2006!

I have written (and COMMENTED ON) ALL of Rumsfeld's RULES from the BUSH one Adminstration.

They are HERE:

Intro (David Brin's Original suggestion to ANALYZE the Rumsfeld's Rules.. (1 of 17)

part 1 : Where he says Dont stay past your usefulness (paraphrased by me) and check with predecessors...

Part 2: Where he says, "LEARN to say, I don't KNOW!

Part 3: Where he says, "leadership is by consent, not command AND Be precise. A lack of precision is dangerous when the margin of error is small (my emphasis!).

Part 4: Where he says, "It is easier to get into something than to get out of it!" and "The WHITE House" wants!

Part 5: Where he says, " 19. Don’t automatically obey Presidential directives if you disagree or if you suspect he hasn’t considered key aspects of the issue.

Part 6: Where he says,
This is SO GOOD.... (couldn't cut...)

20. The price of being close to the President is delivering bad news. You fail him if you don’t tell him the truth. Others won’t do it.

(I said) *** Markbnj says ***
You ain't listening to your OWN rule, Mr. Rumsfeld! Tell him you've failed, and MAKE him accept your resignation and subsequent SUCIDE!

21. You and the White House staff must be and be seen to be above suspicion.
--->>> Set the right example.
*** Markbnj says ***
Go HERE and learn how to CORRECTLY commit Hara-kiri (literally "stomach cutting"). Make sure your entire Staff, and Especially the Vice President understands to perform Hara-kiri CORRECTLY!

22. The role of White House Chief of Staff is that of a “javelin catcher.” *** Markbnj says ***
And the Role of the Secretary of Defense, is that of the person that ORDERS the seppuku or death of the guilty.

Part 7: Where he says, "Have a deputy and develop a successor." Yeah Right!

Part 8: Where he says, "Keep your sense of humor. As General Joe Stillwell said, “The higher a monkey climbs, the more you see of his behind.”
*** Markbnj says ***
HA HA HA . This is FUNNY. In this case, we see RUMSFELD's Balls, he's so high...

Part 9 : Where he says, "Be able to resign. It will improve your value to the President and do wonders for your performance!"

AND

" If you are lost – “climb, conserve, and confess.” (U.S. Navy SNJ Flight Manual)"

Part 10: Where he says, "Plan backwards as well as forward. Set objectives and trace backto see how to achieve them." NEED I add a word at ALL?

Part 11: Where he says, " Don’t be a bottleneck"

Part 12: Where he says, "Consultation helps build consensus" (paraphrased) AND

If a <...edit...>Presidential approach can’t be explained clearly <...snip...>
it probably hasn’t been thought through well enough.
(and)
If not well understood <...snip...>, it probably won’t “sail” anyway. Send it back for further thought.

Not even TOUCHING this one... it speaks for itself!

Part 13: Where he says, " Think of dealing with Congress as a “revolving door.” You’ll be back to today’s opponents for their help tomorrow.

Part 14: Where he says, Beware <...snip...>any idea promoted <...snip...>because it is “bold, exciting, innovative, and new.” There are many ideas that are “bold, exciting, innovative and new,” but also foolish."

*** Markbnj says *** SUCH as REDEFINING TORTURE!!!!!???

Part 15: Where he says, "Include others. As the late Senator Pat Moynihan (D-NY) said, “Stubborn opposition to proposals often has no other basis than the complaining question, ‘Why wasn't I consulted?’”

Part 16: Where he says, " If in doubt, don’t." AND − If still in doubt, do what’s right.

------------
2008 Haiku: Impeach Cheney; Pelosi Pardons ; Democracy Restored-- Pass it on

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (16th in a series) SERVING IN GOVERNMENT (Part 3 of 3)

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld says" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)


<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Watch for the “not invented here” syndrome.

*** Markbnj says ***
Maybe you should take your OWN advice?!!!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

“The atmosphere in which social legislation is
considered is not a friend of truth.” (Pat Moynihan )

*** Markbnj says ***
Perhaps considering ALL the sides of an Issue would help?

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

If in doubt, don’t.

*** Markbnj says ***
OOhhh This is FUNNY... Like Don't make a war without good reason???!


<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

− If still in doubt, do what’s right.

*** Markbnj says ***
Like DON'T UNDERCOMMIT the TROOPS and FUNDS needed to WIN the darned WAR???!!!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Treat each federal dollar as if it was hard earned; it was – by a taxpayer.

*** Markbnj says ***
AND I ask that my DOLLAR be returned. You screwed up your intelligence (what intelligence?), and what planning did you do? sorry!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

“Try to analyze situations intelligently, anticipate problems and move swiftly to solve them.

*** Markbnj says ***
In other Words PLAN for what happens after they "Surrendered!!"

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

However, when you’re up to your
ears in alligators, it is difficult to remember that the reason
you’re there is to drain the swamp.” (Unknown)

*** Markbnj says ***
Come Equipped with the RIGHT number of employees, and the RIGHT equipment to drain the swamp EASILY and with NO TROUBLE at all! THE RIGHT planning is the KEY!!!
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

“In Washington, D.C., the size of a farewell party may be directly proportional to the honoree’s new position and their prospective
ability to dispense largess.” (D.G. Cross)

*** Markbnj says ***
I hope your farewell party is small, and occurs in Riyad, Saudia Arabia

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

“Every government looking at the actions of another government
and trying to explain them always exaggerates rationality and conspiracy, and underestimates incompetency and fortuity.”
(Silberman’s Law of Diplomacy, U.S. Circuit Court Judge Laurence Silberman)

*** Markbnj says ***
Yeah. And the Next president will surely indict you as guilty of TREASON against our country! Run away to Saudia Arabia while you can!
--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdfNote that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (15th in a series) SERVING IN GOVERNMENT (Part 2 of 3)

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)


<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Strive to make proposed solutions as self-executing as possible. As the
degree of discretion increases, so too does bureaucracy, delay, and expense.

*** Markbnj says ***
Refusing to understand that an air attack would not do the job alone will NOT keep you in your job.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Presidential leadership needn’t
always cost money. Look for low- and no-cost options. They can be
surprisingly effective.

*** Markbnj says ***
Especially if they get the president actually listening to the people of the COUNTRY, instead of KARL ROVE.
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Include others. As the late Senator Pat Moynihan (D-NY) said, “Stubborn opposition to proposals often has no
other basis than the complaining question, ‘Why wasn't I consulted?’”

*** Markbnj says ***
Perhaps the American people have a valid point?

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf
Note that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared
on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (14th in a series) SERVING IN GOVERNMENT (Part 1 of 3)

-> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Public servants are paid to
serve the American people. Do it well.

*** Markbnj says ***
AND Don't CONTINUALLY screw up so badly!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Congress, the press, and the
bureaucracy too often focus on how much money or effort is spent,
rather than whether the money or effort actually achieves the announced goal.

*** Markbnj says ***
Perhaps remembering the GOAL would be helpful!

It is very difficult to spend “federal (the taxpayers’) dollars”
so that the intended result is achieved.

*** Markbnj says ***
Perhaps a bit of PRE-WAR PLANNING might have saved BILLIONS and BILLIONS of Dollars in poor spending...
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Beware when any idea is promoted primarily because it is “bold, exciting, innovative, and new.” There are many ideas that are “bold, exciting, innovative and new,” but also foolish.

*** Markbnj says ***
It's interesting. Please define YOUR defination of TORTURE. You may NOT use the word TORTURE in your definition!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

The Federal Government should be the last resort, not the first. Ask if a potential program is truly a federal
responsibility or whether it can better be handled privately, by voluntary
organizations, or by local or state governments.

*** Markbnj says ***
Like the Draft
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

− As former Missouri Congressman Tom Curtis said, “Public money drives out private money.”

.... and poor planning on YOUR part does not make an emergency on MY part, UNLESS you're talking about LIVES of our AMERICAN Soldiers.

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdfNote that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (13th in a series) DOING THE JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part 4of 4)

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Control your time. If you’re working off your in-box, you’re working
off the priorities of others. Be sure the staff is working on what you
move to them from the President, or the President will be reacting,
not leading.

*** Markbnj says ***
ANd this is Different HOW, then Karl ROVE is GOVERNING the COUNTRY NOW???

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Look for what’s missing. Many advisors can tell a President
how to improve what’s proposed or what’s gone amiss. Few are able to see
what isn’t there.

*** Markbnj says ***
AND Apparently YOU can't see what's MISSING EITHER!!!!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Think of dealing with Congress as a “revolving door.” You’ll be
back to today’s opponents for their help tomorrow. Presidential proposals
will need a Member of Congress’ support on some issue, at some time,
regardless of philosophy, party or their positions on other issues.

Don’t allow White House links to Members to be cut because he or she may
disagree on some or even many issues.

*** Markbnj says ***
And you've already cut off 45% of the Congress and the Senate, and HOW do you expect to govern This coming January, with a MINORITY in CONGRESS????

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Work continuously to trim the White House staff from your first day to your last. All the pressures are to the contrary.

*** Markbnj says ***
Maybe YOU should help by resigning as soon as possible...
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t do or say things you would not like to see on the front page of The Washington Post.

*** Markbnj says ***
And, MAYBE it's time for YOU to give them a scoop, and tell them YOU're READY to RETIRE before being Indicted as a war criminal...

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdfNote that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (12th in a series) DOING THE JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part 3 of 4)

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (12th in a series) DOING THE JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part
--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

If the staff lacks policy guidance against which to test decisions, their decisions will be random.

*** Markbnj says ***
As will your policy decisions, if your mind is made up in advance
*** Markbnj says ***
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

− One of your tasks is to separate the “personal” from the
“substantive.” The two can become confused, especially if someone rubs
the President wrong.

*** Markbnj says ***
Yes, and claiming you want to quit or resign, when saying in private "hell will freeze over" is disingeneous.
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Test ideas in the marketplace. You learn from hearing a range of perspectives.

*** Markbnj says ***
Like, Maybe the boss is wrong, and you SHOULDN't have invaded IRAQ or TORTURED prisoners???
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Consultation helps engender the support decisions need to be successfully implemented.

*** Markbnj says *** And listening to your downline suborbinates is usually quite interesting...
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

If a prospective Presidential approach can’t be explained
clearly enough to be understood well, it probably hasn’t been thought
through well enough. If not well understood by the
American people, it probably won’t “sail” anyway.
Send it back for further thought.

*** Markbnj says ***
Annnd you still think that the war in iraq was still good?
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Many people around the President have sizeable egos before
entering government, some with good reason. Their new positions will
do little to moderate their egos.

*** Markbnj says *** Yours too??
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Move decisions out to the Cabinet and agencies. Strengthen them by moving responsibility, authority, and accountability
their direction.

*** Markbnj says *** And maybe listen if there's bad news?

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdfNote that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (11th in a series) DOING THE JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part 2of 4)

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

If in doubt, move decisions up to the President.

*** Markbnj says ***

Good Idea. Why don't you move your resignation up to the president again...

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

When you raise issues with the President, try to come away with
both that decision and also a precedent. Pose issues so as to evoke broader
policy guidance. This can help to answer a range of similar issues likely to
arise later.

*** Markbnj says ***
It would be quite helpful if you actually DISCUSS the ramnifications of these ideas with the president. Otherwise he will be in the dark!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

See that the President, the Cabinet and staff are informed.
If cut out of the information flow, their decisions may be poor, not made,
or not confidently or persuasively implemented.

*** Markbnj says ***
ANd make sure that Karl Rove is NOT in on any strategic decisions
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t allow people to be excluded from a meeting or denied an opportunity to express their views because their views differ from the
President’s, the person who calls the meeting, or your views. The staff system must have integrity and discipline.

*** Markbnj says ***
Even if they were formerly under YOUR command, and now say you made bad decisions!
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

When the President is faced with a decision, be sure he has the recommendations of all appropriate people, or that he realizes he does not
have their views and is willing to accept the consequence. They will be out
of sync, unhappy and less effective if they feel they are or are
seen as having been “cut out.”

*** Markbnj says ***
Ditto last comment
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t be a bottleneck. If a matter is not a decision for
the President or you, delegate it. Force responsibility down and out.
Find problem areas, add structure and delegate. The pressure is to
do the reverse. Resist it.

*** Markbnj says ***
You HAVE become one of the bottlenecks in this administration. Avoid it by resigning!

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

Note that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (10th in a series) DOING THE JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part 1of 4)

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)


<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Your performance depends on your people. Select the best, train them and back them. When errors occur, give sharper guidance. If errors persist or if the fit feels wrong, help them move on. The country cannot afford amateur hour in the White House.

*** Markbnj says ***
AND we ALSO can't afford self centered, ISOLATIONISTS, who DON'T LISTEN to the country.
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

− You will launch many projects, but have time to finish only a few.
So think, plan, develop,launch and tap good people to be responsible. Give them authority and hold them accountable.

*** Markbnj says ***
PERHAPS you should finally HOLD YOURSELF responsible for some of these errors you have made...

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Trying to do too much yourself creates a bottleneck.

*** Markbnj says ***

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Think ahead. Don’t let day-to-day operations drive out planning.

*** Markbnj says ***
and DONT let the fact that you CAN't seem to look ahead prevent you from
RESIGNING IMMEDIATELY!!!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Plan backwards as well as forward. Set objectives and trace back
to see how to achieve them.

*** Markbnj says ***
And see if you CAN achieve them if you've ALREADY blown all your objectives and your Commander in Chief away!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

You may find that no path can get you there. Plan forward to see
where your steps will take you, which may not be clear or intuitive.

*** Markbnj says ***
AND if you ACTUALLY Re-visit YOUR previous decisions, you can EVEN admit you made a mistake PREVIOUSLY!!!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t “over control” like a novice pilot. Stay loose enough from the flow that you can observe, calibrate and refine.

*** Markbnj says ***
OR "MANAGE" according to the traditional definition.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

A President needs multiple sources of information.

Avoid excessively restricting the flow of paper, people, or ideas to the President, though you must watch his time.

If you over-control, it will be YOUR “regulator” that controls, not his. Only by opening the spigot fairly wide, risking that some of his time may be wasted, can his “regulator” take control.

*** Markbnj says ***
You've GOTTa be Kidding. You have not done this at all!

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

Note that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (9th in a series) KEEPING YOUR BEARINGS IN THE WHITE HOUSE(part 3 of 3 )

Note that this is the MIDDLE of a series of statements made by Mr. Rumsfeld. See the end of the document for the source document.



$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$
Be able to resign. It will improve your value to the President and do
wonders for your performance.
*** Markbnj says ***
LISTEN TO YOUR own WORDS Mr. RUMSFELD!!!!!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$
If you are lost – “climb, conserve, and confess.” (U.S. Navy SNJ Flight Manual)
*** Markbnj says ***
Time to FESS up now!


--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

Note that the original source pdf file Mysterously dissapeared on 4/25, but the GOOGLE cached version is HERE

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (8th in a series) KEEPING YOUR BEARINGS IN THE WHITE HOUSE (part 2 of 3)

Note that this is the MIDDLE of a series of statements made by Mr. Rumsfeld. See the end of the document for the source document.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$
--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Keep your sense of humor. As General Joe Stillwell said, “The higher a monkey climbs, the more you see of his behind.”
*** Markbnj says ***
HA HA HA . This is FUNNY. In this case, we see RUMSFELD's Balls, he's so high...

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Be yourself. Follow your instincts. Success depends, at least in part, on the ability to “carry it off.”
*** Markbnj says ***
Make sure that you HAVE instincts. Listen to those around you that may have concerns, and ensure that you're ON TRACK!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Know that the amount of criticism you receive may correlate somewhat to the amount of publicity you receive.
*** Markbnj says ***
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I like this one... OK, go into STEALTH mode now!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much.
*** Markbnj says ***
....OR if YOU ARE critizized, you MAY be doing a BAD job!
<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

From where you sit, the White House may look as untidy as the inside of a
stomach. As is said of the legislative process, sausage-making and policy-making shouldn’t be seen close-up. Don’t let that panic you. Things may be going better
than they look from the inside.
*** Markbnj says ***
If it smells like a pig, looks like a pig, eats like a pig, grunts like a pig, it MIGHT ALSO mean it's a PIG instead of a ROSE...

--- END of this chapter.. keep reading for more
--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

The original is NOW gone, look HERE for a cached version:
http://72.14.203.104/search?q=cache:QqZ3HG_asO4J:www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf+rumsfeld+rules&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=2

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (7th in a series) KEEPING YOUR BEARINGS IN THE WHITE HOUSE (part 1 of 3)

Note that this is the MIDDLE of a series of statements made by Mr. Rumsfeld. See the end of the document for the source document.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$
--> Note that all quotes titled"$$$Rumsfeld says$$$" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Enjoy your time in public service. It may well be one of the most interesting and challenging times of your life.

*** Markbnj says *** May your service to the country end VERY VERY SOON!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t think of yourself as indispensable or infallible. As Charles De Gaulle said, the cemeteries of the world are full of indispensable men.

*** Markbnj says *** And you've screwed up our country enough, since 2001 Mr. Rumsfeld.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Let your family, staff, and friends know that you’re still the same person, despite all the publicity and notoriety that accompanies your position.

*** Markbnj says *** And that despite the stupid things they read in the paper about you, you REALLY ARE that STUPID!

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Have a deputy and develop a successor.

*** Markbnj says *** AND know WHEN to RETIRE! or RESIGN.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Don’t be consumed by the job or you’ll risk losing your balance. Keep your mooring lines to the outside world -- family, friends, neighbors, people out of government, and people who may not agree with you.

*** Markbnj says *** And especially former subordinates who tell you that your PERFORMANCE in inadaquate, and SHAMEFULL.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

When asked for your views, by the press or others, remember that what they really want to know is the President’s views.

*** Markbnj says *** And you should learn to pass the BAD news on, along with the good news.

<-- $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Most of the 50 or so invitations you receive each week come from people inviting the President’s Chief of Staff, not you. If you doubt that, ask your predecessor how many he received last week.

*** Markbnj says *** Remember that you are SUPPOSED to SERVE the PRESIDENT, not the OTHER way AROUND!

--- END of this chapter.. keep reading for more
--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

The original is NOW gone, look HERE for a cached version:
http://72.14.203.104/search?q=cache:QqZ3HG_asO4J:www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf+rumsfeld+rules&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=2

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (6th in a series) SERVING IN THE WHITE HOUSE (Part 6 of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<-- $$ Rumsfeld Says $$ 20. The price of being close to the President is delivering bad news. You fail him if you don’t tell him the truth. Others won’t do it.

*** Markbnj says ***
You ain't listening to your OWN rule, Mr. Rumsfeld! Tell him you've failed, and MAKE him accept your resignation and subsequent SUCIDE!

$$ Rumsfeld Says $$
21. You and the White House staff must be and be seen to be above suspicion. Set the right example.
*** Markbnj says ***
Go HERE and learn how to CORRECTLY commit Hara-kiri (literally "stomach cutting"). Make sure your entire Staff, and Especially the Vice President understands to perform Hara-kiri CORRECTLY!
$$ Rumsfeld Says $$
22. The role of White House Chief of Staff is that of a “javelin catcher.” (Jack Watson)
*** Markbnj says ***
And the Role of the Secretary of Defense, is that of the person that ORDERS the seppuku or death of the guilty.

$$ Rumsfeld Says $$
23. Don’t speak ill of your predecessors or successors. You didn’t walk in their shoes.*** Markbnj says ***

AND IF you are lucky, you WILL walk away alive...


$$ Rumsfeld Says $$
24. Remember the public trust. Strive to preserve and enhance the integrity of the office of the Presidency. Pledge to leave it stronger than when you came.
*** Markbnj says ***
Hooo-haa. Public trust? How about Simply admitting your previous mistakes!

$$ Rumsfeld Says $$

25. Don’t blame the boss. He has enough problems
*** Markbnj says ***
That's because YOU deserve a great deal of the blame.

Note that the original has been removed from villanova.
Look HERE for google's cached version


Note that this post # six of six of Rumy's Rules for "SERVING IN THE WHITE HOUSE"
Next up? "KEEPING YOUR BEARINGS IN THE WHITE HOUSE"

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (5th in a series) Serving in the White House (Part 5 of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<--

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

16. Leave the President’s family business to him. You will have plenty to do without trying to manage the First Family. They are likely to do fine without your help.

*** Markbnj says ***

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$
17. Make decisions about the President’s personal security. He can overrule you, but don’t ask him to be the one to counsel caution.

*** Markbnj says ***

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

18. Being Vice President is difficult. Don’t make it tougher.
*** Markbnj says ***

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

19. Don’t automatically obey Presidential directives if you disagree or if you suspect he hasn’t considered key aspects of the issue.
*** Markbnj says ***

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf
*******update*** as of 4/25/06 THIS file has MYSTERIOUSLY disapeared from the server.
Look here. It's the Cached GOOGLE (thank you google!) version of the file!

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (4th in a series) Serving in the White House (Part 4 of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<--

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

12. It is easier to get into something than to get out of it.

*** Markbnj says *** AMEN Brother Rumsfeld. What part of this did you FORGET?!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

13. Don’t divide the world into “them” and “us.” Avoid infatuation with or resentment of the press, the Congress, rivals, or opponents. Accept them as facts. They have their jobs and you have yours.

*** Markbnj says *** AMEN Brother Rumsfeld. What part of this did you FORGET?!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

14. Amidst all the clutter, beyond all the obstacles, aside from all the static, are the goals set? Put your head down, do the best job possible, let the flak pass, and work towards those goals.

*** Markbnj says *** AMEN Brother Rumsfeld. What part of this did you FORGET?!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

15. Don’t say “the White House wants.” Buildings can’t want.

*** Markbnj says *** No comment from me. YOUR comments welcome!

Note that the original has been removed from villanova.
Look HERE for google's cached version

PoliTicS: Villanova Deletes file of Rumsfeld's RULES--Update 5-16

Amazing: Here's the text of a letter I just sent to Villanova University
I find it amazing that someone actually thinks they can ADJUST history by DELETING a file!

** as of 5/16 the file is back in place! mb


I've been using your school's copy of this document for about a month.
"http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf "

You were the first site on Google's Search for "Rumsfeld's Rules"

Amazingly, enough, it disapeared from your server YESTERDAY!
(I checked your directory, and it was REMOVED!)-- there were other PDF files in the directory, but NOT that one.

Since this document is STILL available via google's Cache, I would appreciate your requesting that this file be restored from your backup tapes.

PS:
THE DOCUMENT will NOT go away, despite SOMEONE's attempt to delete it. DONALD Rumsfeld WILL have his day in the public press. AND you or your school will be noted for attempting to SUPRESS HISTORY!

PPS: I have been a unix/solaris administrator for many years myself. I know it may not have been YOU personally, but this WILL be reported, and it may not look so good for your institution if this is not resolved!

--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf
*******update*** as of 4/25/06 THIS file has MYSTERIOUSLY disapeared from the server.

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (3rd in a series) Serving in the White House (Part 3 of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.
--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<--

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

8. Walk around. If you are invisible, the mystique of the President’s office may perpetuate inaccurate impressions about you or the President, to his detriment. After all, you may not be as bad as they’re saying.

*** Markbnj says *** I really think Donald Rumsfeld is EXTREMELY guilty here. He IS totally invisible 95% of the time.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

9. In our system leadership is by consent, not command. To lead a President must persuade. Personal contacts and experiences help shape his thinking. They can be critical to his persuasiveness and thus to his leadership.

*** Markbnj says *** Please comment!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

10. Be precise. A lack of precision is dangerous when the margin of error is small.

*** Markbnj says *** Please comment! My personal opinion is that the margin of error has been so small, and his misTEAKS so LARGE, that the precision of our Armies has been shot to smithereens!

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

11. Preserve the President’s options. He may need them.

*** Markbnj says *** Hoo-Haa-Haa. ANOTHER MAJOR Guffaw here.. Please Comment!


--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf
NOTE: the file above has DISAPEARED!
Look HERE for Google's Cached version

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (2nd in a series) Serving in the White House (Part 2of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<--

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

3. Don’t begin to think you’re the President. You’re not. The Constitution provides for only one.

*** markbnj sez *** I actually approve of his actions in this Rule. He has very carefully followd this Rule.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

4. In the execution of Presidential decisions work to be true to his views, in fact and tone.

*** markbnj sez *** I actually approve of his actions in this Rule. He has very carefully followd this Rule.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

5. Know that the immediate staff and others in the Administration will assume that your manner, tone and tempo reflect the President’s.

*** markbnj sez ***I do not approve of the Secretary's actions in this Rule. However, he has very carefully followd this Rule.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

6. Learn to say “I don’t know.” If used when appropriate, it will be often.

*** markbnj sez ***I do not belive that a honest analysis of this rule would EVER show that the Secretary's actions in this administration have EVER shown that he even knows how to SAY the words, "I don't know"
$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

7. If you foul up, tell the President and correct it fast. Delay only compounds mistakes.

*** markbnj sez *** I Think THIS is the MOST damaging statement to possibly emerge that will hurt Donald Rumsfeld forever and forever.Pleaes Discuss (and Document freely!) I will leave it to others to suggest why Mr. Rumsfeld has failed.


--Read the ORIGINAL source HERE:
Rumsy says:See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf
Amazing. the original disapeared... look HERE for the Google Cached version!

RumSFelD: My Rules for Life (First in a series) Serving in The White House (Part 1 of 6)

What the Heck is this? Read THIS post.

--> Note that all quotes titled"rumsfeld sez" comes from a document he created in 2001, entitled, "My Rules for Life" (see bottom of post for original source)<--

Unless Noted Explicitly (with a "*** markbnj sez *** ") all content is from (c) Donald Rumsfeld (see (c) at bottom of this post. Note that THIS post in its entirety, including Rumsfeld's quotes ARE (CC).
Note that I will also set off end of my comments with "$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$"
Note that the First entry Titled "serving in the white house, is several pages, and thus broken up into different messages for clarity and brevity.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

Many of these rules, reflections and quotations came from my role as Chairman of the “transition team” for President Gerald R. Ford and my service as White House Chief of Staff. Others came from experiences as a U.S. Naval Aviator, a Member of Congress, Ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Secretary of Defense, Presidential Middle East Envoy, business executive, Chairman of the U.S. Ballistic Missile Threat Commission, and other experiences.
These reflections and quotations have been gathered over the past 40 years. Credit is given whereknown. As the quotation has it, “If it’s not true, it’s still well founded.” (Unknown)

SERVING IN THE WHITE HOUSE
(for the White House Chiefs of Staff, and senior staff)
*** markbnj sez *** suggest words "AND Members of the President's Cabinet" be implied. That would make this sentenance say,
For the White House Chiefs of Staff, senior staff, and Members of the President's Cabinet

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

1. Don’t accept the post or stay unless you have an understanding with the President that you’re free to tell him what you think “with the bark off” and you have the courage to do it.

*** markbnj sez *** (emphasis on "stay" added). I don't think that the Secretary of Defense has Successfully Done this in his current assignment. Please comment and discuss YOUR views.
I get to start (it's MY blog...) I think that the President needs to know you need to Leave your post now, because no matter what the policies, or good you may have done (that may be open to argument),you are beginning to affect the country as THE ISSUE Affecting the Presidency.

$$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

2. Visit with your predecessors from previous Administrations. They know the ropes and can help you see around some corners. Try to make original mistakes, rather than needlessly repeating theirs.

*** markbnj sez *** I don't think that the Secretary of Defense has Successfully Done this in his current assignment. There ARE resources that the Sec'y could use, (such as Retired Generals), but has chosen to actually marginalize these generals, rather then listen to their input. Please comment and discuss YOUR views. $$$ Rumsfeld Says $$$

See my original post HERE. (all 13 pages of it)
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

Note: this link no longer works,(The DOCUMENT disapearred!) See other posts for linkage!

First Edition - 12/1/74
Copyright 1980
Donald Rumsfeld
All Rights Reserved
Revised – 2/20/01

RumsfelD: Rumsfeld's Rules for life, Intro to a Series of 16 snippets of his Rules

I love my Favorite Science Fiction Author (David Brin)
His Blog Today showed a great topic.
That of our Great Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld.
His post, suggests that we need to start to PUBLICIZE "Rummy's Rules" more. Therefore, I will be starting a Series of RumSFelD's Rules and Discussion of them, as discussed in the following document...

Please, you go read “Rumsfeld’s Rules”... the well-meaning (or cynically manipulative) list of “wise sayings” published by the Secretary of Defense when he returned to that post in 2001, close to three decades after he reigned over our final humiliation in Vietnam. Please, somebody, hector some better-known blogger than me, so that this link gets wider attention. The Rules should be read at two levels, for their cliched but genuine truth... and for their bitter irony. For one thing, the list makes clear that today’s Donald Rumsfeld has to be the Bizarro-opposite-guy to whoever wrote these rules. Obsessively and perfectly opposite. So much so that I suspect we’re living in an old Star Trek episode! See it all at:
http://www.library.villanova.edu/vbl/bweb/rumsfeldsrules.pdf

I will be posting and parsing the rules (all 13 pages of them, ONE at a time, with SPACE for comments!
Markbnj