Just this morning I watched the YouTube video of Susan's performance again. One of her statements before she sang arrested me. When Simon asked her about her dream, she replied that it was to be a professional singer. He then asked why her dream had not worked out. Her answer was that she had never been given a chance.
I believe that the chief role of leadership in any capacity, in the home, in the church, or in the government and business world, is to bring the dreams of those being led to life. I wonder how many "Susans" are out there; people with an incredible God-given dream and potential. Their gift, their dream lies dormant because no one has ever given them a chance. They have been pre-judged on appearance or social status. Perhaps even worse, they have been discouraged by those who should have been encouraging. Instead of seeing the potential, the focus is on the external things instead of the work of God.
Let me illustrate - my son Justin is in grad school at Clemson University. He is able to combine two deep heart dreams - teaching and math. Those that know Justin will attest to the fact that he is excitable as well. He gets excited about his passions. I had a conversation about Justin with a church leader several years ago. In the conversation he remarked that he could not see how Justin could be a teacher; he was too excitable. I could not believe what I was hearing! A church leader was actually discouraging Justin from engaging in his passion, from living his dream.
Unfortunately the conversation about Justin reveals an attitude that is far too prevalent in the world today. If you desire to be significant in the world, help people achieve their dreams. Give them a chance.
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2 comments:
The most worthwhile part of being a leader is seeing those who have come to you eventually pass you. That will not happen if they are not given a chance. Blessings to Justin for pursuing his passion.
Unfortunately, many leaders assume the position of king. Nobody can pass them. Their security is their postition and if that is threatened they will react strongly. The hearts of the fathers are not turned toward the children. Therefore the curse remains.
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