Have You Seen My Stars & Stripes?

This week, someone stole the American flag we proudly fly at our gate. Apparently, the thief made it to the class on patriotism but missed the one on integrity. The timing is interesting, as I’ve been writing on the “character quotient”, a critical element of leadership that sadly, seems to be in short supply in just about every echelon of society.

I've been reflecting this week on the importance of personal leadership as a foundational element in the fabric of our culture. Someone is watching each and every one of us - so essentially- we're all leading someone. You don't have to have title or rank to make a difference.

As I thought of the sad person who took our flag, I was reminded of Fulghum's book, "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten". I guess someone in my neighborhood needs to go back to kindergarten.

True greatness comes when you’re trusted. ~ Teddy Roosevelt

Sarah Palin- A Woman of Substance

I try to avoid discussing politics with my family. We have extremely different views on fundamental things and I don’t like to fight about it. But this blog is a place where I can let you know how I feel and if you want to disagree, you can do so politely in the comments.

I like Sarah Palin. I admire and respect her for a number of reasons. Being in the political spotlight has got to be tough. I wouldn’t want to be in her shoes, but I am thankful she has the courage to stand up in these perilous times and do what she thinks is right. I have read the harsh criticisms of her and know that comes with the territory in politics.

An AP article written by Martha Mendoza describes her as “the ethics-protecting, belt-tightening mom, who easily juggles family and her government job. She switches back and forth between mother and governor without a blink. But details of her life that have emerged under the glare of national attention show that she's a complicated politician. She's disarming and accessible for some, vindictive and hard toward others. She has many loyal friends, tremendous hometown support, and a few fierce enemies.”

Sounds like part of the job description to me. I am looking for leaders who will look to God and listen for His wisdom, rather than catering to popular opinion and special interest groups. I see Sarah Palin as the real deal. She is a woman of God who has made her share of mistakes and will probably make more. But she has my vote. And that’s what I have to say about that.

Eagle School

I have been working overtime the past week with Cupcake on scholarship applications, essays, papers, and even lease agreements, so I haven’t had much left when it comes to blogging. Tonight she was finishing up an essay on passionate character building (what a concept!).

You know how you can look at something every day and not see it? There is a quote on the wall by my desk that I hadn’t actually read in awhile. Tonight we were looking for a quote on leadership and character and I didn’t have to look far.

"A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the quality of his actions and the integrity of his intent. In the end, leaders are much like eagles…they don’t flock, you find them one at a time." - Author Unknown

It inspires me and it spoke to her. Why scratch with the turkeys when we can soar on eagle's wings? Upward and onward.