The Essentials of Leadership 1

Too often I am impressed by a person who exhibits foundational
leadership talents yet goes unnoticed. My best laid plans to
reference these people in my writing many times falls victim to the
tyranny of more urgent matters and I thereby contribute to their
ongoing anonymity. Such will not be the case today.
As the medical consultant for a group of 60 high school choir kids
I fill lots of roles. Baggage handler, behavior modifier, counselor
and van driver could all be used to describe my duties. Along with
one of the teacher/chaperones, Ken Myrhe, our assignment was to
transport 60 robes and stoles to Disneyland where our students were to
perform. After a few false starts such as driving in the wrong ramp
we finally made our way to vehicle inspection and then to a charming
guard named Missy at the gate to the back lot. We were a bit
flustered but she introduced us to a marvelous gentleman, Max. He
looks for all the world like Walt Disney himself and his demeanor was
as warm and inviting as Mr. Disney used to seem when I watched him in
the '50s. All our worries abated as he welcomed us and instructed us
in where to go and where to park. In fact, he walked alongside us to
make sure we got there. Max then acted as our stage manager and we
became his responsibility.
Here is where Max's leadership talents shone, in his ability to
encourage, guide and even correct our kids while never once appearing
to be frustrated or upset. Soft spoken as he was, there was never a
question as to his authority nor did any of us doubt that, if we
disobeyed, we would be standing alone and forlorn outside the gate!
What skill it requires to balance authority and grace in our
interpersonal relationships. Max knew he would not likely see us
again and he could easily have told us that it was his way or the
highway but he chose instead to be the type of person that that we
didn't want to disappoint! Do you see the difference? Our kids
behaved because we respected him and did not want any misbehavior to
reflect poorly on Max.
Oh, that I could lead like that! The Essential to be learned
here? Balance authority and grace to inspire people to follow you.
Then hang on for your skills will be in high demand.