Blog post by Patriot Academy Governor John Moore
Leadership: Noble Character Meeting a People In Need
When turbulent times arise, it is more important than ever to have a strong grasp of courageous leadership. More than ever, the American people are asking questions, and they’re not looking for armchair quarterbacks, slothful clergymen, greedy politicians, or narcissistic newscasters to answer those questions. They are looking for leaders who hold an understanding of transcendent truths, and who manifest those truths in their daily lives.
Many think that leadership is a position of command, but while this may be an external manifestation of leadership, leadership at it’s best is a series of internal suggestions resulting in immediate action towards a noble goal, and the selfless character necessary to help others reach the same. Jim Mellado summarized it well when he said leadership is, “The expression of courage that compels others to do the right thing.”
In his book Talent is Never Enough, John Maxwell says, “Courageous Leadership simply means that a man has developed:
1.) Convictions that are stronger than my fears.
2.) Vision that is clearer than my doubts.
3.) Spiritual sensitivity that is louder than popular opinion.
4.) Self-confidence that is deeper than self-protection.
5.) Appreciation for discipline that is greater than my desire for leisure.
6.) Dissatisfaction that is more forceful than the status quo.
7.) Poise that is more unshakable than panic.
8.) An attitude of risk taking that is stronger than safety seeking.
9.) Right actions that are more robust than rationalization.
10.) A desire to see potential reached more than to see people appeased.”
You aren’t a leader until you’re walking ahead of the group, taking bold steps of character-driven action, and others put their trust in you to guide them to their destination. Like the locomotive on a train, when you start pulling the weight not just of yourself, but of all those around you, they can’t help but follow you. But it’s impossible to follow a stopped or detached locomotive anywhere.
You won’t be a leader, until you’re first a man of noble character, a grandiose vision, and a stomach for the fight.
So what does this mean for young patriots? Â How do we demonstrate vision, character, and a fighting spirit in small and big ways across the nation? Â Come to Patriot Academy and find out.
Stand fast.
