A new book says we want more than just a leader in the White House. People also seek class and character in a president. And a little passion wouldn't hurt either.
"Americans don't even know it, but generally they like to elect a gentleman to our most prominent government spot," says Kristin Alexandre, author of "The Perfect Gentleman: The Secrets Rich Girls Use to Choose the Classiest Guys" (available online at Amazon and Borders and http://www.thenewgentleman.com/).
On that account, Alexandre contends President Bush falls short. "To qualify as a gentleman a man most respect God, the earth and women," she says.
"In the case of George Bush, we all know he came from money but love and respect for our Earth did not get handed down. He is therefore missing the primary characteristic of a gentleman," the author says.
Alexandre cites former Teddy Roosevelt as every rich mother's perfect son-in-law. "He pioneered the National Park system, and yet his greatest passion was his family.
"This was a man who cherished the earth and all that was in it and who recognized the need to protect our resources early on," Alexandre says.
The author was Speaker Coordinator for the Environmental Action Coalition, the group that organized Earth Day 1970. It is therefore no surprise that she believes all decent men should possess a natural and God-given passion to save our earth. If they don't have the passion, drop them, she advises readers.
"Find out where a man's passion lies," Alexandre says. "Then ask yourself if it's a fit for you."
The author uses naturalist Galen Rowell's respect for nature as an example of a quality that women should look for. "It's no coincidence that a man who is humbled by his place in the universe is usually the first person to take an active role in our earth's survival."
"The Perfect Gentleman" is recommended by Vanity Fair's Michael Shnayerson as a life-changing guide for women. Kirkus Review praises the author for her friendly tone and helpful advice for women looking for healthy relationships.
For more information, visit http://www.thenewgentleman.com/.
