Yes, you are frustrated with the poor approach to, or even absence of, the use of metric units (especially the absence of the use of metric units). But, please work to win your correspondents over to metrication. If you want them to take off their coats, warm them up so they will want to take them off---don't try to blow their coats off with a lot of wind.
Begin your message by expressing some honest praise for the product or the activity. Then, go on to say that, in your view, the product or activity you have recognized will be improved by being made or described in units of the metric system of measurement, which is used by all major nations except the U.S., and that you are supporting U.S. metrication. Remember that, in the minds of many in government and industry, metrication is, at its best, a small issue, and at its worst, a sore spot in their planning. It is up to us to advertise it (advertising means, literally, turning people's heads). We are not going to gain support by blasting people. We will gain support by friendly persuasion. Think back to the circumstances of your own "Aha!" moment over decimal measurement and the world map of metric countries. Then, craft your message to fit that inspiration; share that inspiration with your correspondents. Enthusiasm is contageous! U.S. metrication will be judged as much by its messengers as it is by its message. SIncerely, Paul R. Trusten Registered Pharmacist Vice President and Public Relations Director U.S. Metric Association, Inc. www.metric.org [email protected] +1(432)528-7724
