Whether seen in a wily political speech, an innocuous conversation between parent and child, or a literary masterpiece, rhetoric saturates human life. It traverses our existence like a needle and thread, binding together many fabrics of life. At the center of rhetoric is thought. A desire to share a thought or idea pushes one towards expression. Although the intent of this communication can be malicious or benevolent, informative or persuasive, and perception can distort its meaning, at the bottom of rhetoric is the communication of thought. As one can imagine, communication can come in a wide range of forms and is influenced by the cultures and ideologies of the participants. In addition, action is involved in rhetoric. Rhetoric enacts change. There is an inherent change of the past with every piece of rhetoric. Something new is said, or something old is resaid. Regardless of the content, the vibrations of rhetoric stir the water. And as these water rings expand and bounce off of each other, moving wildly about the pond, they affect one another, creating untold repercussions. This interaction is extremely special. Through rhetoric, the purposeful and linguistic communication of ideas, mankind can learn and grow from each other. While one’s experiences and personal knowledge are very limited, rhetoric provides a way for humans to learn from almost anyone. The small boy in Lexington can know about the Napoleonic Wars. The pipe worker in Alaska can understand the social status of 18th century England. Two companions can sharpen and change each other through the use of rhetoric. Rhetoric is a broad and potent sword.