Thread by @benwikler

My grandfather, John W. McDonald, retired today. He’s 95. Hero of mine. 1/

Worked his way through law school driving a milk delivery truck. Became a Teamster. Joined the foreign service. First post: Marshall Plan.

Served in Germany, France, Turkey, Egypt. Raised his four kids, including my mom, in a series of new countries and languages.

In 1974, the International Labor Organization needed a new deputy director general. How many diplomats were union members? He got the job.

Named Ambassador to rep US @ UN negotiations re disability rights & water Access. Helped start UN Environmental Program & UN Population Fund

Retired from State Dpt after 40-year diplomatic career—& devoted rest of his life to idea that it’s not only diplomats who can build peace.

Founded the Institute for Multi-Track Diplomacy in 1992. Ran it until today. Worked all over the world.

imtd.org

Four kids. Four grandkids. Five great grandkids (& counting). Well-lived life. Well-earned retirement. Blind now; fan of The Economist audio

Taught me about living a life of service. Taught me about what America can be in the world, at its best. Building for people, with people.

Taught me about taking the long view. About respecting everyone you meet. About believing things can change, and you can change them.

The object he’s holding is an award that he received today, for peace with justice. The right goal.

Happy retirement, grandad.

Love you.