Servanthood is alive and well in the United States! The Coronavirus has brought to the forefront that wonderful American trait of “helping others” which I, for one, thought was long gone from the psyche of most citizens! Remember, I was born during the last years of World War II when all U.S. citizens were asked to deny themselves of things like real butter, to ration gas and foods, and to buy stamps to help the war effort. So, I grew up with the idea that it was the right thing to do…to think of the needs of others!
My husband and I thank God each morning for the blessings we have as Americans. We are especially praying for all the health care workers, researchers, food industry providers, even the truck drivers hauling produce around the nation. And we don’t forget the military members who do whatever it takes to make our nation and people safe! What makes us most happy is watching a very divided nation making strides to work together for the common good instead of pushing forth individual agendas. We are also praying for our President and national leaders as they are having to make very difficult decisions and choices. Why would anyone seek to become the President?!
I believe our young children will remember this experience just like I remember the years following WWII. This will give them those “Why, when I was a child, we had to…” stories to tell their children and grandchildren! Yes, they will be far better citizens for having to go through this. (As will all of us!)
In a leadership role, I’ve always operated on the notion that if I do what I expect my staff to do…alongside of them…in addition to my own duties…I will have more respect from them. I am in the trenches with them. I make the same mistakes they make. I grow frustrated with the same stressors they have. In other words, they can believe me when I tell them, “I understand your feelings…I’ve been there.” This relationship makes it easier to lead and to accomplish the goals of our school.
What better example than Jesus Christ… “Greater love has no man than this: that he lay down his life for a friend.” So, I don’t think of servanthood as a servant’s position in life, but rather as an act of love for my fellow man!
- Kay