I am always thankful for leadership insight. And since it’s Inauguration Day, I’m sharing a few leadership thoughts. First, we have various types of leaders within our society. You might see a parent, a grandparent, or your pastor as a leader. But what really is the contributing factor that creates the image of a leader in your eyes? Is it the guidance they provide you? Do they always set the example? Perhaps it’s their commitment to serving others? Whatever your answer might be, I hope we can all agree that leadership is the ability to influence others. In some manner, the person you identify as a leader has somehow managed to influence you. In many ways, former President Barack Obama has been an exceptional leader. I could detail the many people he has influenced, but that would take a lot of time, and I believe being short with a bit of punch is often appreciated.
So what lesson am I sharing today? First, we live in an amazing country that strives for democracy. Believe me, it is an amazing privilege. If you don’t feel that blessing within the core of your bones then you should travel abroad to areas that live in devastation. For most of us, that is impossible, but journeys can set sail by reading as well as watching documentaries.
Secondly, let’s honor President Obama’s final message:
“All of us, regardless of party, should throw ourselves into that work — the joyous work of citizenship. Not just when there’s an election, not just when our own narrow interest is at stake, but over the full-span of a lifetime” (The White House, President Barack Obama).
So many of us express that President Obama is a great leader. If so, I ask that you let his final words influence you. We are a nation that soars when unified. We are also a nation that is blessed with so many freedoms. We have much to do, but we are able, and we must simply show we are capable. Our society needs leadership that focuses on the people. Each and every one of us can partake on this mission. Ask yourself, how is the action I am committing upholding President Obama’s request? Do you think it will set the example? And will it meet his approval? Let’s be thankful for his presidency and show how he influenced us as a nation. I hope we can take his words to heart:
“And when the arc of progress seems slow, remember: America is not the project of any one person. The single most powerful word in our democracy is the word ‘We.’ ‘We the People.’ ‘We shall overcome'” (The White House, President Barack Obama).
How will you join this peaceful voyage?
Leadership2Mommyship 
Written from a very different perspective, I think this one is really interesting and with a balanced view of present times, and change. Thank you for this article with a refreshing point of view.
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Thank you Amitav! I really appreciate your compliment. I’m glad you found it refreshing. I think too often we focus on the negatives and forget the positives. We have much work to do as a nation and this post by no means denounces this issue, but I ask that everyone consider how they go about representing their cause(s).
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It was a pleasure reading this article and I completely agree with you that a little change in focus can open a new window of positivity, where a society and nation can grow along with contribution to create a harmonious environment. Sending blessings and best wishes.
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Exactly! Optimism is a blessing. Thank you! 🙂
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A wonderful post. We do have a lot to be thankful for – our country, our democracy and the peaceful passing of power. The Obama’s will be sorely missed.
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Thank you Bernadette! I really appreciate your compliment! They are a beautiful family–inside and out– and I wish them all the best!
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Different people latch on to different traits in a leader. Ultimately, it is about serving others!
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Exactly! At the end of the day, it’s about the people. 🙂
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Love the optimism of this post. I have resolved to be a leader by being the first to lend a hand, give a smile and show kindness to those I know and do not know., to those I agree with and those I do not agree with. I think that this country is made great by the people. It is up to us to lead from where we are.
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Thank you! Yes “Walk the Talk” it’s cliche, but true. Thank you for sharing how you show leadership. One person cannot fix and resolve every situation; however, we can do our best to guide from where we are. One of my biggest pet peeves while in the Air Force was lots of talking and no action. I think we can all play a role no matter where we are–just as you stated. 🙂
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Great post, I agree with what you said. And I do believe he was a great leader regardless what others say.
I heard him speak those words and I’m glad you jotted them down.
I will save them and share them.
Thank you for this post!
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Thank you Karen! If you click on the quote I embedded a link to his final letter. You might like to read his address in its entirety. 😊
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Omg! Thank you so much!! You’re the best!!
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You’re welcome. Do let me know if it doesn’t work–it should. 😊
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