I caught myself expressing a rhetorical truth. Initially I thought I was doing it for the benefit of the people in the room. As I reflected on the expression, I realized I was reminding myself of a fact which I often forget. Even as I heard myself, I found myself holding a new resolve to take intentional leadership action. It was an unexpected calling to lead from the front.
Rhetorical reminders, especially of shared goals and aspirations, are helpful. In hearing them, I find myself embraced by others in the community of believers. In acting on them, I find myself empowered and strengthened in knowing I am not alone. Rhetorical statements for a center point from which one cannot err.
Rhetorical statements can provide an additional layer of detail and texture. In starting at the center, one’s expression and intentional act of including more takes the collective understanding from low to high fidelity. It is as if one is filling in the details which add and enhance what others intuitively know to be true. It is hard to understand the value in helping others step into a fuller experience. The result is a stronger bond between all who are willing to listen.
Rhetorical statements can also bring release. I do not hear a call to action with the psalmist rhetorical statement, “These loudmouths – don’t let them be taken seriously; these savages – let the Devil hunt them down!” (Psalm 140.11) I do hear a call to release the actions of others to Divinity. In this release, I find myself looking to the future with shared intent.
As the work week fades and I take time to reflect, the rhetorical words and actions of the day are echoes of habits I hope I embrace every morning. There is endless work to be done. If the community is not fully formed, I hear an open invitation to be one with others at the center. When one is part of a community of hope, kindness, and care, one is lifted and encouraged to build a superstructure for all.
