13 Hours of Rain

in·teg·ri·ty : the quality of being honest and having strong principles; moral uprightness. group·think : the practice of thinking or making decisions as a group in a way that discourages creativity or individual responsibility. e·mo·tion·al in·tel·li·gence : the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. There are times I wonder if institutions or organizations (or dare I say churches) even ponder on what kind of leaders they are hiring. Sometimes it seems like a particular person attained a position of power because of three interconnected reasons: (1) personal connections, (2) the ability to perform well in an interview, and (3) the assurance that the prospective employee will be in sync with the status quo. Of course, qualifications and experience are definitely considered. But even the resume items of education, previous places of employment, prestigious awards, skills and d...

During my teaching career, I was blessed to work along side many competent leaders who were respectful and encouraging in how they interacted with their followers. I specifically remember my first teaching job in a province other than my own. I had walked into a fairly challenging teaching assignment. I had replaced a retired legend, who was quite miffed that a rookie was asked to teach senior physics (and told me just that). I was understandably stressed and overwhelmed. One day, as I worked on course outlines before the commencement of school, my principal walked into the room. He said to me, "I have full confidence in you. You will do an amazing job!" And then, he walked back to his office. I will never, ever forget that. In that moment, he boosted my morale and empowered me to do my best. And, by God's grace and enabling, I did. My principal was very proud of me at the end of that year. Your Daddy and I are also blessed to have a respectful and encouraging pastor as...