Enough

I was talking with a wise executive recently who was sharing his thought process on the next steps in his leadership journey. One of the driving questions he posed for change was, “Have I had enough?” While it seems like a simple question, a meaningful answer requires some soul searching, wisdom and courage.

 As I reflected on this question and our current state of affairs, I came to the following conclusion:

 I have had enough of the fear factor. I am tired of living in a culture that is driven by being afraid. We are afraid of accepting responsibility for our own behavior, so we blame those around us. We are afraid of thinking for ourselves, so we blindly follow the most simple commands, refusing to do the hard work of investigating and finding the data for ourselves. We are afraid to dig in and learn more. We are afraid to commit to much needed change in our society in regard to respect and dignity for all. We believe what those who have an agenda are telling us, without demanding to seek what is behind their rhetoric. Perhaps most concerning is that we are living in a culture where many are afraid of using common sense. The result is a chaotic eruption of fear, ignorance and an absence of courage.

I have much to learn and lots of areas in which to grow. However, I have seen enough of our great nation acting like spoiled and fearful children. Let’s decide for ourselves that we are going to do better. We are leaders and we can assess and make decisions based on truth and insight. I admit that it will take work to gain these things, but the effort will be worth it. As we gain that wisdom, let’s have the courage to take a stand and communicate the truth.

 When we decide that we have had enough of being driven by fear, we will make a difference in the lives of those we love, live with and lead.

Larry