Stories in two quite different publications caught my eye this week. First I came across a story in the New York Times by Maureen Dowd called “Stars and Sewers“. Then I noticed an article in the Wall Street Journal by Shirley Wang called “Get Out of My Way, You Jerk!”
These articles actually have nothing at all in common other than talking about the ongoing lowering of the quality of life due to increasingly abhorent speech and behavior…and the lack of response from those who should be showing leadership by telling the truth, correcting falsehoods, and guiding us back to a civil society. You for example.
Then I happened to see a clip of House Speaker John Boehner answering “It’s not my job to tell the American people what to think. It’s my job to listen.” He was responding to a question about why he refused to correct the false view that President Obama was not born in the United States and is a Muslim.
Boehner is an exemplar of the problem. He’s an example of someone in a position of great power lacking a backbone strengthened by moral fiber.
For he is totally incorrect in his assessment. The true leader is not swayed by fear of being defeated in the next election and so lets lies and half truths guide their words and actions but strives to guide people through honesty, truth, and exemplary behavior. The job of the leader is to raise people up and guide them to a better future not be dragged down by and feed the lies of those enraged and incoherent in their anger.
It’s difficult to be such a leader. That’s why they’re so rare. A true leader tells people the truth and helps them understand the hardships all must undertake in the face of adversity. A true leader paints a picture of shared sacrifice that leads to a brighter future for all. A true leader is forthright and inclusive while stirring the emotions, pulling everyone together, and leading them forward.
True leaders refuse to be bought and guided by the shiny things thrust at them. True leaders know how to reach out to all and bring people together rather than drive them apart. True leaders know how to work with others for the greater good.
As I gaze around I find such leaders sorely lacking. Which brings me back to you. What kind of a leader are you? Someone who divides and pushes the hard decisions off onto his children and grandchildren or someone who unites all while addressing the issues and solving the problems.
How strong is your back?