The Things We Do

Many people often wonder how those who are in the positions of leadership in public service and private business take the news when reports come to light that things are not getting better and that some outcomes are having a negative effect upon others and the community at large.  It is assumed that people in leadership will do the right thing, act ethically, make positive changes to improve the quality of life of those they serve.  It is assumed that these leaders and managers have what it takes, the skills and talent to keep things headed in the right direction.  It is also assumed that when it comes to ensuring that the people they represent or lead will always have their voices heard regardless of the situation.  But that is expected.

What really happens?  Can a person in leadership do something that is beyond their belief system, heart, faith or conscience?  Is there a separation between what is right and wrong, church and state or does a person give in to what is in their best interest?  What is in it for me, myself and I… or better yet, how can I get the most out of this situation that benefits my future ambitions.  Oddly and strangely enough these and more are the questions that continue to beset our society even in the 21^st century. 

However, there is not a day that goes by or even a moment that we find people struggling to keep their heads above water, homeless, hungry and alone.  There are so many people in our society that are hurting, hearts broken and crushed by the weight of policies and regulations that benefit only a few and not the many.   It is not that all of them have lost their way, bad choices, their lot in life, but also there continue to be many people who can help… who don’t.    

The story of the Good Samaritan in the bible provides the best insights to helping those in need, especially when the question is asked… Who is my neighbor?  We must remember that there are no limitations on who can make a difference in another person’s life.  And with that in mind during this holiday season, let us answer the question not only through our words, but through our actions.                

A Matrix of New Leadership

As the 21^st century continues to unfold, we are witnessing an end of an era in which many topics that were once though as being untouchable are now being reconsidered.  This is also a time in our society when a number of subjects that were taboo, off limits and the rule of law are being challenged. Some of our most recent controversies include marriage equality, immigration, mental health, gender issues, equal pay, voting rights, health insurance, union membership, drug treatment and the right to bear arms.   Some of the changes have been well received and a huge burden has been lifted, while on others… the verdict is still out.

With each passing day, more and more issues are coming up that once set the cultural norms for our cities, communities and society in general.  On one hand it is a good thing to take a fresh look at policies and practices that were applicable for one generation, but now may be outdated and obsolete.  We need to keep in mind that a lot of things need to reviewed, altered, and disappear from the books.  In addition, there are some things that are not dying out fast enough.   

On another hand, ...and this is no laughing matter, we are also witnessing a time period in which people are trying to reintroduce ideas from our distance past and even from the pages of history as some new relevant, moral or conservative belief.  Many of those ideas reflect segregation, greed, prejudice, suppression of voting rights and human rights.   

This era is requiring the emergence of new kind of leadership to address the mounting list of issues facing communities and the nation.   Some of the major challenges include the retirement of the baby boomer generation, social security, diversity, climate change, racism, socioeconomics, gun violence, poverty, education, future workforce, sustainably of natural resources and globalization.  This new leadership must shift from competition, division, and control; but focus on building partnerships, collaboration, fostering connections and common ground.  This new leadership must not be afraid of the past, but must learn from it and build upon its true values and equal rights.   Now, that is not too much to ask for? 

Standing The Watch

Throughout history and all across the globe, countless nations, neighborhoods, communities, towns, and cities have adopted various forms of what is called the “watch.”  The term and concept have been used with a number of professions, careers and the military.  To have the “watch,” has come to symbolize an effort to be on guard or on the lookout for things occurring that may affect us all.  

In more recent times, the “watch” has become a systematic approach to local vigilance by residents of a particular neighborhood to discourage crime and to promote safety.  This watch is referred to as the “Neighborhood Watch.”  Even most large companies, corporations and manufactures have security details that list positions as being the night watch.  During the colonial days of our nation, there were those who were employed as the town or city watchmen. 

In the Navy, the “watch” is a vital part of everyday standard operation and procedure.  On shore or at sea, the watch is critical at every level and includes all ranks.  Even when there is a retirement from the Navy, there is a poem that pays tribute to those who have served and “stood the watch.”   The poem goes on to say, “while some of us were in our beds at night, this sailor stood the watch; while some of us were at school or work, this sailor stood the watch; even before some of us were born into this world, this sailor stood the watch; when the storm clouds of war were brewing, this sailor stood the watch…. However, the most stunning part of that poem comes toward the end … “this sailor stood the watch for a number of years, so that all Americans could sleep safety, each and every night, secure because this sailor stood the watch…   

Truly remarkable … what a wonderful thing to say to those men and women who have served their country well and now find themselves at the end of their military career.  And to finally say to them, … “we are here to pay our respects as it is said for the final time… you stand relieved… relieved by those you have trained, guided, and led.  Sailor you stand relieved of duty, we have the watch.”