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What Have I Learned?

Every moment in life has a lesson attached to it; it’s just our job to discover and apply. Leadership is a tough and challenging journey for anyone willing.


Recently my leadership has been challenged with a couple tragic losses to people I care very deeply about. I sit here motivated and emotionally committed to writing this blog post while struggling for the words.


Vulnerability, the subject of the book Daring Greatly by Brené Brown, comes to mind as I’m typing this. There is no specific leadership school nor preparation for us as leaders when we face tragedy; and yet those who choose to follow us trust that we will do and say the right things at the right moment in the face of tragedy. A great quote from the book says, “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness.” While reflecting, I realize the role of the leader is to create the movement towards Hope & Empathy. It’s a one foot in front of the other approach. Brown also says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.” True leadership, in my opinion, cannot exist with vulnerability.


While I’m reflecting on those lost recently, I can only begin to think of the differences in our lives they made and the impact on the world they have left.


I believe in salvation, and I truly believe I will see them again!


So what have I learned? Great question…. I believe that I don’t have to perfect. I don’t have to say the perfect thing. I don’t have to embrace for a certain amount of time. I don’t have to cry on cue. I don’t have to have all the answers. I have learned that I can be vulnerable in those moments. I just have to be me, and a catalyst for movement towards Hope & Empathy. This is the lesson learned.