Simplicity

I am on a quest.  I passionately, resolutely, and adamantly want, hope, and desire the organizations I am associated with to be compassionate, accepting, and professional with their clients and vendors.  It is a simple message; treat others as you want to be treated.  Give to others what you would and do desire.  Be what you hope others will be.  The contents are simple.  Principles of respect, honor, and commitment all come into play, living themselves out in wonderful life colors.  I believe being this is profitable.  I believe these principles give you a competitive advantage.  I know they make a fundamental difference in your positioning. 
 
Somehow my words have missed the mark.  “If I hadn't come and told them all this in plain language, it wouldn't be so bad.  As it is, they have no excuse.”  (John 15.22)  The simple fact is this, quite frequently the “I” word has won out over the “we” word.  I want profit.  I want to win.  I need to be on top.  I must be at the head of the line.  I am right.  My response is always the same, it isn’t about “I” it is all about “we”.
 
I am not suggesting we shift society into a mode of one for all and all for one, socialism at its extreme.  I am suggesting that individuals and organizations can exercise their freedom to make a difference.  We can model what it means to live out the principle of letting others go first, even as others stick the servant leadership label on the action.  We can position our companies squarely on the client, letting her or him see and experience our values and principles.  We can live and act with a disciplined commitment to unconditional respect.  We can “win” across the competitive landscape because of these actions!
 
While the message is simple, living rarely is.  The heart of the principles is already etched on our souls, yet I often find myself meandering away towards the god of self.  Today is a window on a new world.  I’m stepping through it.