Buy-In

Leadership is far more than rhetoric.  Taking the point, metaphorically, is more than just power and control.  Vision and missions do not focus on one particular segments of the team.  Leadership is about getting in the mix, adding value, and getting one’s metaphoric elbows dirty.  Painting a vision of the future, outlining intent, and sharing the rhetoric moves to a totally different level if the person who delivers also models what every word means in living reality.
 
Leaders in team sports can be legendary for their ability to mouth off at times.  The difference between hype and junk talk is one of walking the steps in the vision and the dream.  Even if one has a different view the fact that there is complete personal buy-in demands respect and serious consideration.  Although the course may seem strange or unusual, if the presenter is someone who connects and she or he believes in his or her heart and mind, I find myself usually giving the idea time to resonate in my reflection.  There is something incredibly powerful in living, breathing, and walking models.
 
I find myself looking back over the years, examining those who were and are most influential in my life.  In each case their words matched their walk.  In every situation the principles they held close were ones I admire and aspire to hold myself.  The power that comes from their journey is overwhelming!  It is as if they are guiding me without any force, manipulation, or coercion.
 
Across time we can see examples taking the same route to convey true truth.  Jesus made an observation to those around him which is as true then as it is now.  “So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other's feet.  I've laid down a pattern for you.  What I've done, you do.”  (John 13.14, 15) 
 
I wonder if the values I hold close to my heart are reflected in my journey.  Today is an opportunity for you and me to model – to give others the chance that we have found.