The room was stuffed. Every chair had an occupant. People were standing around the edges. While I did not think the subject was particularly interesting or compelling, clearly I was in the minority! In the business context we were in, there was an additional unusual factor – everyone was in a seat early.
As I look around the room, it was interesting to note the broad representation. All functions were represented, many at a senior level. Analysts, specialists, and managers were here in force. We were set, well almost.
As the start time came into focus, one additional individual arrived. He was a lead manager for a key support function. Everything that had its place was not in question. One on the left volunteered his seat. Another on the right offered to move to the back. A coordinated pointed to several unwilling volunteers that could be bumped from the table.
I watched with a growing awareness of the importance of leadership. An old writer one said that “God is Lord of godless nations – sovereign, he’s King of the mountain.” (Psalm 47.8) I always wondered what this looked like in modern society. On this day I watched in play out in a corporate setting that could have been anywhere in the world.
My reflection left with three observations that still linger.
Leadership comes with responsibility and opportunity. It is not enough to sit in the chair. If one is called to be in the role, one is called to engage and act.
When others offer respect and kindness, one should never presume it is deserved or earn. It is a gift. It is priceless. It can only come from within one to be offered to another.
Opportunities are moments in time. One must do something with them otherwise they will be as if they never were. Steam on a cold day, we see if for a brief period only to lose it in the reality of where we stand.
The morning’s darkness is slowly giving way to a day with invitations and opportunities. It is a gift.
