When you’re meeting the king, you give it your best shot. To Americans, Donald Trump is their president. But to Liberia and some parts of the world, he’s more than that—he’s seen as a king, simply because he leads the most powerful nation on Earth. Take it or leave it.
ByVictor T. Dumu, contributing writer
Meeting someone like Trump is a blessing in disguise, depending on how the conversation unfolds. Now, let’s talk about the “yes sir” moment—when President Joseph Boakai of Liberia responded to Trump during a diplomatic encounter. Some found it awkward, even controversial. But diplomacy isn’t always black and white. There are exceptions to every rule.
Let’s not forget, President Boakai was involved in diplomacy long before many of us even graduated from high school. Sometimes, the very act of humility and respect—what wisdom demands—is what softens the heart of a king. You never know what impact a simple gesture might have.
President Boakai is seasoned. He has seen much, experienced much, and I’m sure he knew exactly what he was doing. It’s easy to criticize from the outside, but when you’re the one in the arena, the view changes.
As Proverbs 20:5 says, “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.” This means a person’s true thoughts and intentions are often hidden and complex, like deep water. But a wise person knows how to draw them out. This is the essence of diplomacy—seeing beyond the surface, navigating relationships with wisdom.
And what is diplomacy without gain? Useless.
Liberia has many educated people—so many “book people”—but look at our schools. Our textbooks and learning materials often come from Ghana, Nigeria, or elsewhere. We’re the oldest republic on paper, yet in many ways, we lag behind.
When you are poor and broke, understanding becomes your most valuable tool. Lose it, and you lose life itself. So stay humble. Use wisdom. And never underestimate the power of quiet strength.
God bless you, Mr. President.
And God bless Liberia.
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