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April 2005
Today, I join millions
across the world today in praying for the beloved, dying Pope John
Paul II. It is difficult for me to focus on "business" today, as my
heart and mind keep dwelling on the pope, his remarkable life, and
what he modeled for us all. He blended deep faith, spirituality, and
belief in God with the ability to connect with people of all ages,
religions, and stations in life. So today, I wanted to write about
servant leadership, something Pope John Paul II embodied in his
approach to the world's most humble and most powerful.
To me, servant leadership is reflected in those who understand the
needs of others, and seek to empower them to have those needs met.
Some key attributes of servant leaders are the ability to nurture
trust; courage; humility; and collaborative approaches to
challenges. It may seem contradictory to think of a servant and a
leader as the same person, but to me it seems perfectly natural.
Many of the best leaders that I have known are those who
instinctively strive to make others successful. They are good
listeners, and they expect to be able to improve the lives of those
they serve. They don't rely on status or titles to be seen as
leaders; they often shun the limelight. They work alongside others.
They may eschew the popular or easy choice, in favor of the tough
choices that will benefit others the most.
Mahatma Gandhi said "The best way to find yourself is to lose
yourself in the service of others." As I seek to find myself, and
understand who I am and what my gifts are, I often find that I learn
the most when I am serving others. That is certainly where I find
the most joy and fulfillment: helping others to grow and recognize
their own power and magic.
I hope that this month, you will consider how you might be a servant
leader, at work, at home or in your community. If I can support you
in that exploration, please ask.
Sharon
Sharon Keys Seal