If you have been a leader for any length of time, you know that there will certainly come a day of confrontation or verbal disagreement. Perhaps this excited you, or this even terrified you… People-pleasing is checked at the door of honest, loving confrontation.
After a particularly hard year in 2018, I thought little was left of the ill-placed images connected to being an influential, well-loved leader. Then it happened. Insecurity grabbed me by the throat one night at small group, threatening to sabotage relationship, and it made me question my intentions. But, my intentions were for growth and truth. The evening resolved quite honestly and openly, including an apology. Goodbyes were said to my house guests. I had no more need for shame than a rain barrel had need of a lid.
Still the deceiver taunted me. “You messed up. They will reject you. You are too inadequate for this responsibility of leader.” I freaked. I played the piano to quiet my mind and calm my soul.
I decided to speak truth to myself in the form of poetry. What did a real leader look like? What were my goals, responsibilities and reasonable expectations…And not just for a small group, but for opportunities big and small in the future?
To Be the Leader
I am the leader
This is no small thing
I may lead them toward anger
I may lead them to sing
I am the hospitable leader
Whether in house or mind
May they hear from me their value
Find me willing and kind
I am the honest leader
I will correct their error
And do it in love
Not with pride or terror
I am the strategic leader
My responsibility is large
To look toward the future
And survey the charge
I am the patient leader
To scout the way
May mean to wrestle
With unexplained delays
I am the resourceful leader
Who develops the skills
Of my fellow man
To someday perform drills
I am the prayerful leader
When we are under attack
It will be with wisdom
I choose to fight back
I am the student leader
Who will not fear the fall
I learn from trial and triumph
And admit my faults
I am the playful leader
Who will always make time
To cultivate those interests
Which are uniquely mine
I am the grateful leader
My day will be riddled with praise
To Jesus my own leader and friend
Who gives me grace for the way
Abigail Wiggins
Babbie's blog 