Words matter.
Words define leadership in a positive or negative light.
You can’t separate out words, leadership, character, and vision for where we desire to take people.
Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A day to remember one of the most remarkable leaders in recent history.
Ironically, today is also Inaguration Day of the first convicted felon in Presidential history Donald Trump.
One leader called Haiti, El Salvador, and African countries s-thole countries. And asked:
_ “Why are we having all these people from s–thole countries come here?” Why do we need more Haitians? Take them out.”_
(Source: Washington Post, People Magazine)
Another leader, Martin Luther King Jr., asked:
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'"
(Source: Country Living Magazine)
You decide which leader was/is committed to the benefit of others? But I share these quotes because of these truths: Words create new worlds. Words make better humans, thriving communities, and hope for tomorrow. Words can bring life, or death.
Words are fuel for the leadership we need at this moment, or any moment.
This is not a question of who is flawed, or less flawed. We all are. But rather, despite our flaws, who is going to do the most for others? Who will bring words of life and hope?
Who will have the courage to make the art needed for the moment? Who will lead with words that unite and don’t divide? Words littered with hope and inspiration and positivity for a better future.
History is an excellent teacher of what this kind of leadership looks and feels like.
We only need eyes to see.
-Ryan
