As we all know by now in Canada and many parts of the world, our fearless leader of the Opposition, Jack Layton, has succumbed to a second battle with cancer.  He was only 61.

Jack was a great communicator because he was able to handle himself in difficult discussions (as the 2011 Leadership Debate certainly highlighted) as well as add a soft touch, a human connection to those he spoke with.  He could connect with anyone and make them feel important whether it was face-to-face, over the phone or through email.  Those close to him commented often on this ability to shift from professional lecturer/debater to small-town folksy chit-chatter.  As a matter of fun-fact, before the 2011 election he was voted the guy Canadians would most want to have a beer with, compared to the other 3 federal leaders he was running against, in an online survey.  More noteworthy was his ability to be memorable to those he met, for example the security guards at the Ottawa parliament buildings.  That was a key concept of effective communication that Jack understood and employed – the ability to be remembered.  That is one of the ingredients to having what people call ‘charm’ and ‘charisma’.

Even though Mr. Layton was not the Prime Minister, he will be given a state funeral this Saturday.  This is an honour not given to everyone in politics, and certainly reflects how the people of Canada felt about the man, regardless of how we felt about his political views.

I am not a political analyst but I had the pleasure of analyzing the 2011 federal leadership debate and seeing Jack use quite effective body language and public speaking techniques to win over audiences and press members.  I was not surprised to see his popularity rise after that showing, and was happy for him when he earned Leader of the Opposition status with the NDP.

My point really with this blog entry is just to comment how sad it is that Canada has lost such an interesting politician, one who confidently spoke his mind, one who people like me enjoyed watching.

Also, on a personal note, I lost my father this year to cancer as well.  He also was 61, and it went just as fast when it started.  I know what the Layton/Chow family is going through, and I wish them all the best during this very difficult year.