Let the Leader Lead

It isn't every day that a true leader comes along. Certainly not at the level of what we are witnessing today. There are many “leaders” in many aspects of our society but I’m speaking about something different than the conventional leader. I speaking about that rare individual whose ideals, abilities, words and actions all line up and consistently show a higher level of development. There is something about such a person’s character, something in their body language, something about their total package that serves as a shining light and an example of our very own potential both individually and collectively.

Through almost two years of close scrutiny under a campaign spotlight Barak Obama has consistently shown balanced calm, grace under fire, poise in battles both lost and won, and an equanimity that would make a Zen monk jealous. He connects, he listens, and he includes in a way that makes you feel, well, included.

At the outset of the U.S. presidential race Barak Obama was some 30 points behind in the polls. Now he is very probably set to become the next president of the United States. How did he do this? Through inspiring leadership Barak Obama built what is likely the most effective political organization in history.

Garrison Keillor (of lake Wobegon fame) recently summed it up beautifully in the New York Times:
 
“….Barack's cool poise in the face of blather is some sort of testament to American heart and humor. The man has walked tall…Onward, America. We've all seen plenty of the worst - the sly cruelty, the arrogant ignorance, the fascination with trivia, the cheats, the weaselish and piggish and the buzzardly - but we can rise above it if we will only recognize a leader when one comes along and have the sense to let him lead.”

"If we can only recognize a leader when he comes along and have the sense to let him lead"…..Indeed!


Here is a video of Barak giving a talk to his team at his Chicago HQ after gaining the democratic presidential nomination. You can see that here is a man who is totally in his element, acknowledging good work done, preparing for what is yet to come and, in his cool and natural way, inspiring others to be responsible for change. After 10 min.s you are ready to follow this man anywhere. For those interested in leadership, this is a must see.