Saturday 10 October 2009
“The superior man…stands erect by bending above the fallen. He rises by lifting others.”
Robert Green Ingersoll
Ingersoll was a famous 18th century orator and lawyer, but beside that, he seems to have been a pretty good guy. I think he was an agnostic, and I wonder if his experiences as a soldier during the Civil War had any impact on his thoughts and values. I imagine that seeing numerous, shattered young men inspired his words, in both the literal and figurative sense. In my experience in Afghanistan, I continue to be impressed with the skill and compassion of those people who spend their days and nights bending above the fallen. I see the very best of humanity and compassion on display every day. It’s hard for me to place the health care debate ongoing in our nation into perspective over here…budgets, tort reform, partisan politics. The care here is sincere, unadulterated, risen to its purest form. I’m fortunate to see it and be a small part of work that is healing for both patient and provider.
I think Ingersoll was right in the figurative sense, as well. I have had the recent opportunity to meet with some of my senior leaders, and it has led me to reflect on what makes (some of) them effective. Actually, I’ve been thinking how to manipulate those in my direct chain of command in order to achieve my team goals, but that’s beside the point.
When I think back on the leaders that I respect the most, they always seemed to be more concerned about the welfare of those around them than on personal gain or advancement. They never tried to rise by pushing down on others. They would certainly shine, probably all the more from the reflection of those shining around them. I’m convinced that you do rise best and furthest by elevating and celebrating those who surround you.
Saw an interesting quote in the laundry tent, yesterday. Yes, inspiration comes from the most unlikely sources.
“The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.”
-Albert Einstein
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