Looking at life is difficult because we cannot see without using our glasses of experience and beliefs. We see everything through these colors even if we do not choose to accept or acknowledge this state of being. I find myself pausing to reflect, remember, and then trying to remove what I can see myself looking through, trying to see the truth. I am rarely successful, if only because the god within tends to hide itself under the wraps of self-esteem, honor, and ego.
What call to action to I have when there is an injustice playing out in front of my eyes? Do I step in what a child is being unfairly disciplined? What about a na?ve worker who being exploited? What should one do when they see a man or woman being taken advantage of by another person in a dating situation?
Do I sit idly by and watch bad things happen? Is there justice or is this just part of reality? Am I seeing the real picture?
Maybe not, but “blockheads shouldn’t leave on easy street any more than workers should give orders to their boss.” (Proverbs 19.11) There is order and fairness that must be maintained, right?
The second part of the proverb gives me insight into life. What if workers need to give orders? Is there a responsibility born by everyone regardless of role, status, or standing? What is my response to others?
Servant leadership brings with it its own truth. Workers who understand servant relationships always lead no matter where they stand in the hierarchy. This is not about justice; it is about the power of truth living in the real world. We can make a difference, not by imposing justice but by being living models.
Want to make a difference? Model the contrast to a blockhead. Reach out and help those in power where you work. Then present reality with justice can be seen through compassion and love. We can drive change that will last beyond the moment. This is real justice, found always in compassion and love.
