Over the past week I have been processing and asking myself what am I to say, if anything? My problem is that I recognize I cannot make any type of ripple to change this deeply systemic and horribly wrong problem that exists in our nation. I will not say I can personally understand, because I can’t, but what I can say is racism is wrong and the systemic change starts with those of us people who make up the system. What can those of us who are people of influence, or leaders, with or without a position do?
Listen
I was listening to a leader explain what he had done over the past week. He had done exactly what any good leader will do . . . listen. He asked the hard questions to understand from others’ perspective and listened. As leaders within our homes, communities and workplaces we need to create an environment where with care and candor these difficult conversations can be had and we need to be quiet. Seek to understand and feel with others what this injustice feels like.
Be Honest
This is a look inward. Over the past few days I have been processing with multiple people. As I was having conversations one person close to me pointed out an unintentional way I communicate that adds to the problem. I have to be honest with myself and open to understanding what I say and do and how it can impact others. As leaders we must look at ourselves and the organization or team culture we create. Does it promote respectful honesty about important issues? If not and we are the leader, it starts with us.
Change
The application. Why am I slow to say anything? Change takes time and transformation starts with each of us individually. As we listen and are honest light will shine on what we need to change. The first change must start with me and then ask what is my role in making a impact, even if small, to the system of injustice that I can impact? Rosa Parks one small action made a significant impact that started in her community. What is the one small action, or big, we leaders must take to address the system?
Care and Love
This is a problem that is much deeper than the color of one’s skin. The solution is deeper than superficial adjustments, saying different things, or creating a new policy. At the core of the solution is love and care.
While implementing the above three steps will we allow ourselves to be transformed into people of love and care who consider the needs of one another not just in crisis, but daily? One of my favorite books describes how we show care best in its description of love. Whether in the home, community, or marketplace more of the following will serve to make a small ripple to transform this systemic problem.
Love is: patient, kind, does not envy, does not boast, is not proud, does not dishonor others, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs, does not delight in evil, finds joy in truth, protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. If we seek to lead with this list in mind we will be leading justly and creating homes, workplaces, and communities where people are valued.
How can you and I lead more justly today? Lead Well.
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