Leadership

Meaning of True Leadership

As the times have changed and a new Age dawns upon us, we must look towards the future and decide on the paths that we shall take within it. And none others may be better suited towards such an undertaking than those that don the mantle, both the perks and burdens, of leadership. Today I shall discuss the qualities that makes one a 'true leader', as an expression of my gaining understanding in such a matter. Anyone might gain the mechanical means of authority over others, to MAKE people follow them...appointment, peer pressure, political manuevering to get into posistions they so desire, force of arms and threat against life and limb, holding the well being of othershostage to ensure compliance directly or implied, etc. 'Any fool may raise an army, but takes a General to lead it' as an old saying goes towards this effect. To be a true leader and worthy of that posistion however, takes something else than merely pushing others to do what you want, a nonphysical and almost undefinable aspect and quality of character that draws others to WANT to follow you.

It is here that most fail to make the cut, for most seek such power over others simply for the the perceived glory of the title and posistion, the recognition of their peers and those under them, or to sate their own egos for whatever reasons cause them to lash out against others. Few are those, most often ones that don't seek that mantle of leadership themselves but are forced to take it up by circumstances, that prove to be the most capable for the role. Yet the position is usually chased after by those that see the perks and attentions while remaining blinded to the cost of such a mantle once claimed.

The cost of leadership is one far graver than many are willing to admit or acknowledge. You sacrifice everything that you are, that makes you 'you', and instead seek the ideal of becoming the living embodiment of those over whom you would lead. Their will made flesh, their goals and well being now yours and what defines you. THIS is what it means to be a leader, nor merely to be in charge and demand people do as you say, but to give up everything to lead them to their full potential. The perks and benefits alluded to above are the repayment for such a massive cost paid, of course, but do not let them blind you to the reason they are granted in the first place to any that would seek to lead another.

As with this city being seen as a mighty Engine of Transformation, with each piece acting as a cog in the machinery functioning in their part and portion towards the greater goals of the whole, those that lead from the center of the Engine must have the vision to see beyond themselves, their circle, and immediate and personal desires towards the larger collective's gain that surrounds them. Even the smallest action, and errant thought from those bearing such a burden of responsibility shapes and forms the flow and direction of all that follow them, beyond the immediate and into the distant future.

It is this weight, that 'True Leadership' means, the mantle of responsibility that comes with the trappings of title and prestige which so many either refuse to see or are blissfully unaware of when they see such positions of power and authority. For those that come to realize the cost, and embrace it, however...find that they truly rise to the ranks of leaders that become legendary for the loyalty and success they encourage in others, more than the glory they seek solely for themselves. The better those under them perform, the greater the whole, and thus themselves in reflection as the embodiment of those they lead, become in the greater scheme of things.

My intention in this has not been to sway minds, or influence decisions that will be made, but to stress the importance of what undertakings we as a nation must take upon ourselves in the times to come. Ambition, hunger, rage, cunning, and more make up the core of what it means to be Magnagorian...Balance is required to truly master all, but in this time of Transformation, I feel we as a Nation will surpass any expectations. Go forth and lead this world into greater glory!


                                           Ever in service,

                                           Shango D'Cente