Here’s the email I wrote to Leadership Reno County Alumni on Monday, 4/15:
At the church where I work, we have a gravel parking lot on the north side of the building. For a few weeks (sad to say) I’ve watched the slow demise of a banana peel. I know it’s a banana peel because of the bright Del Monte sticker on the side of it. I’ve seen this peel on the sidewalk, then back on the gravel. And, the thought has occurred to me, I wish someone would pick this thing up. But part of me likes to watch this slow rot occur.
I wonder how much of our civic leadership engagement is just like watching this banana peel. We rest on those in positions of authority to fix things. In this case, I’m waiting for those whose job it is to clean to get to this (rather that doing it myself). We forget that anyone can lead, anytime, anywhere. This is an opportunity for me to engage. We forget that it starts with me and engages others. Sure, what needs engagement here is a simple banana peel, but it does relate to me. My purpose must be clear. Why do I do this? I want clean facilities. Why? Because it helps the community? Why is that important? Because I want to make a difference in people’s lives. Why? (get the idea?). It’s risky. Ok, not too risky, but it will mean doing something different than I might.
Undoubtedly, the situations you engage in are much more significant than a miniscule banana peel (which I did go out and throw in the trash), but I hope this helps you see just how leadership unfolds. Hope to see you Thursday.