I've struggled for some time about what I perceive to be a lack of leadership for the American people. I feel there are musicians who have a following and are outspoken about their views on society and how we should treat the environment and each other. But while the inspired speech may energize a crowd, often that energy dissipates after the show. It seems like world-renowned leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr.and Robert Kennedy, who were true advocates for social change are a thing of the past. Perhaps the American people grew tired of seeing their leaders assassinated for their beliefs and the leadership trend began to turn inward, rather than outward. I believe this was the beginning of a lack of trust and confidence in leadership at the national level. Young men and women sent to die in far away lands without a clear explanation behind these decisions. Today our so-called leaders of the 21st Century appear so entrenched in partisan politics and extremism that little is done to advance the causes that truly impact the people who need them the most. It amazes me that people are paid a substantial wage with great benefits to get little to nothing done. What a model to follow....
Yesterday, the actress and humanitarian, Angelina Jolie went public with the news that she had undergone a double mastectomy, not because she was diagnosed with cancer, but because she had tested positive for the gene that is found in those pre-disposed to get breast cancer. She stated that she made this decision due to the loss of her mother in her 50s as well as her 6 children. Her choice to share this information will impact the lives of so many people and hopefully provide support and guidance for those in need. I commend and admire her decision to be outspoken and public about her very private and painful choice. I was also recently inspired and touched by the actions of the gentleman, Charles Ramsey in Cleveland who decided not to ignore the distressed calls for help from one of the women abducted and kept for 10 years against her will. This man chose to step up and respond to the cries for help and assisted in three woman and a little girl being rescued after years of torturous mental and physical abuse.
Yesterday, the actress and humanitarian, Angelina Jolie went public with the news that she had undergone a double mastectomy, not because she was diagnosed with cancer, but because she had tested positive for the gene that is found in those pre-disposed to get breast cancer. She stated that she made this decision due to the loss of her mother in her 50s as well as her 6 children. Her choice to share this information will impact the lives of so many people and hopefully provide support and guidance for those in need. I commend and admire her decision to be outspoken and public about her very private and painful choice. I was also recently inspired and touched by the actions of the gentleman, Charles Ramsey in Cleveland who decided not to ignore the distressed calls for help from one of the women abducted and kept for 10 years against her will. This man chose to step up and respond to the cries for help and assisted in three woman and a little girl being rescued after years of torturous mental and physical abuse.
Perhaps this is the future of leadership in America. Individuals who take the steps necessary to provide a reference for others. Sharing information that is difficult but ultimately will serve the greater good. Stepping out of one's comfort zone to help those in need. Little by little each of these demonstrations of good will and humanity may inspire others to follow suit.
I've always thought the quote, "if the people lead, the leaders will follow," was profound. This may be the path to leadership in the 21st Century.
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