Strength and Leadership

I have been pondering the nature of strength and leadership for the last few days. What is the appearance of strength? It can be bold and forceful. It occurs to me that the true picture of strength is not so loud. I imagine strength is more of a quiet assurance that has the core of the firmness of steel covered with the softened edges of velvet. True strength stems from a rock solid belief that you are exactly correct or on the right path for your place in life. It isn’t afraid of opposing views or a change in your views, beliefs or path. Strength is not being afraid of yourself, others or living. It is the courage with which we face the unknown and unknowable and move forward regardless. It is a compelling, driving combinaton of fear and anticipation to face the cliff-like future with faith and just jump. This brings me to leadership. I believe that true leadership has a core of true strength. Leadership doesn’t always look like a bright beacon shining that we are compelled to follow, nor does it always look like the outstreched hand urging us to go forward. Leadership has many outward appearances. At the heart of brilliant leadership, I believe you will find a heart turned towards outward other people, ears that are listening and a mouth that is closed. When leaders speaks, their people listen. The power that a leaders’ words and actions hold is immeasurable. They considers the truth before they speaks. Their words are dedicated to lifting up, not tearing down. They are more concerned with giving than taking. The weight of responsibility is their mantle and they wear it with joy and acceptance.