What are you spreading?
"That's what great leaders do: They make people better. They help them become what they are.
As it is written in the Bhagavad Gita, 'The path that a great man follows becomes a guide to the world.'
The self-disciplined don't berate. They don't ask for anything. They just do their job...In their presence we feel called to step up, to step forward, to reach deeper because they have shown that it is possible.
'Happy is the man who can make others better, not merely when he is in their company, but even when he is in their thoughts,' Seneca wrote, speaking not only of Cato but of all the men and women who inspired him...
we can be a positive force in our community. We can show our children, our neighbors, our colleagues, our employees what good choices look like. We can show what commitment looks like by showing up each day. We can show what it means to resist provocation or temptation. We can show how to endure. We can show how to be patient...
like courage, there is something contagious about discipline.
The fire within us can burn bright enough to warm others. The light within us can illuminate the path for others.
It starts with us, it starts within us."
~ Ryan Holiday, from Discipline is Destiny (pgs 246-247)
Three years ago, I lost my dad. A man I dearly loved and greatly respected. A man who left a legacy of love and service in this community. I've been reading the second book of Ryan Holiday's Stoic Virtue Series on the topic of discipline. As I reflected on my dad's legacy this week, I was struck by Ryan's words and quotes regarding great leaders.
Dad lived his life in this community, serving in many roles. Mechanic, bus driver, church elder, and chief cook to name just a few. He was a trusted friend and advisor with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom in finance, business, auto repair, boating, and fishing. But more than anything, he was a man who loved to help others and make them laugh. Providing transportation, meals, stories, and smiles, for thousands of people. He wasn't trying to change the world, but he did. He did his best to provide for his family and care for this community. He was a humble man who lived a modest life and warmed the hearts of others while illuminating a path, and modeling the way to live life well.
Ryan's words struck me as I considered Dad's life and impact on his family and on this community. He didn't go on a mission to be great and respected, but that is what he became. He didn't seek praise and admiration but is what he was given. I read so many books about great leaders and figures from history, but I am reminded that we are all surrounded by great leaders. Humble, modest, disciplined, courageous, wise, loving leaders. May we take time today to pause, breathe, and smile as we recognize those around us? The great leaders, doing the work, making others better, and spreading hope, joy, and love in this world that so needs it.
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