Compare Yourself to Spradlin! Do you think you would have been able to do what he did?

Use this forum to discuss the June 2024 Book of the Month, "Quest: Finding Freddie: Reflections from the Other Side" by Thomas Richard Spradlin.
Osakwe Precious
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Re: Compare Yourself to Spradlin! Do you think you would have been able to do what he did?

Post by Osakwe Precious »

To be very honest, I doubt that I would have done what Spradlin did. Spradlin's deep understanding of Nigerian culture set him apart. As a woman, my experience in Nigeria during the 1970s would be very different.
Grace Jane
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Post by Grace Jane »

While I admire Spradlin's determination, navigating a foreign country alone would be daunting.
NicoleFaith24
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Post by NicoleFaith24 »

I think if I had to do it for a loved one or someone I knew I would will myself to do what Spradlin did. I think the cultural differences make it more difficult but something still possible if I were aware of how things are done in the country.
Williams Frank
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Post by Williams Frank »

If I were in Thomas Richard Spradlin's position, I would prioritize thorough research of the local culture, language, and political climate. Building a network of local contacts, showing cultural sensitivity, and taking security precautions would be crucial. I would also adapt my problem-solving strategies to align with local norms and remain flexible and patient throughout the process.
Phillip Noah
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Post by Phillip Noah »

If I had Spradlin's connections in Nigeria and his capabilities, I think I would do what he did. I think Spradlin drew his courage to find a missing person with very little clue of where he might because he had fore-knowledge of the country, Nigeria. This knowledge helped him to enter the country and meet the right people to aid him.
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Kim Jieun
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Post by Kim Jieun »

Tony's bravery and selflessness in prioritizing his client's safety, even in the face of adversity, is truly admirable. I must admit, I doubt I could muster the same level of courage and dedication that he demonstrated in his actions.
jay johnston
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Post by jay johnston »

I'm unlikely to have replicated Richard's feats, which demanded a distinct combination of Nigerian terrain expertise, personality, and diplomatic skills.
nath steve
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Post by nath steve »

I highly doubt I could have accomplished what Richard achieved. His success required not only familiarity with the Nigerian landscape but also a unique blend of personality traits and expertise in international relations.
Hana Hasegawa
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Post by Hana Hasegawa »

The idea of me accomplishing what Spradlin did is unthinkable! I wouldn't have possessed the skills to navigate the complexities of a vastly different foreign policy, nor could I have acquired the language proficiency through self-study. My utmost admiration goes to Spradlin for his remarkable achievements.
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Post by james bond2 »

Spradlin's deep dive into Nigerian culture afforded him a unique advantage, but as a woman in 1970s Nigeria, my experience would have been vastly different and more challenging. Unlike Spradlin, I wouldn't have been able to navigate the complex foreign policy landscape or master the local language with such ease.
Emi Akira
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Post by Emi Akira »

i wouldn't have possessed the skills or expertise to navigate such a vastly different foreign policy landscape, nor could I have learned the language through self-study.
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Post by alina constantin »

If I were in Spradlin's position, I would have prepared extensively, considering the diversity of Nigerian culture and the numerous languages spoken there. My main challenge would have been the language barrier. Additionally, I would have familiarized myself with some fundamental cultural practices to ensure I could integrate smoothly and avoid any potential issues.
peter nnaemeka 1
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Post by peter nnaemeka 1 »

Definitely not! I wouldn't have been able to manage such a vastly different foreign policy, nor could I have learned the language just by studying a book on my own. I commend Spradlin for his achievements.
Maren Eze
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Post by Maren Eze »

I would not go to Nigeria.
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Post by Anthony Nwolisa »

I have immense respect for Spradlin’s achievements. Navigating such a complex foreign policy and mastering the language from just a book is beyond my capabilities. If I were in Spradlin’s position, I doubt I would have been able to do what he did.
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