| The King and I In Search of Leaders for the 21st Century by Margaret Simpson Black In times of war and peace, it is most natural to look upon those who lead us. And in times of war and peace, we are inclined to see within each person who leads the reasons we feel moved to vote them in or out of office, at least in America with a political vote. After this recent war, I am a bit tired with politics. But it has made me think more immediately about leadership, and the "who-should-be a leader question," which brings me to politics. And perhaps by simple definition, politics is the nature of being in power or out, popular or not. So in America, the land of democracy, we vote them in or out, can't we? I am fascinated by the simple idea of the "Popular vote," or the secondary idea of power in the "Electorate vote," and then we have had in recent times in this country the new Solomon idea in the "Supreme Court vote." Perhaps things have changed. Oh well, how about a timeless idea of the "King and I" vote? I can hope the good King is kind, just, fair and executes his power with mercy and diplomacy, creating a compassionate regime. But today the idea of royalty -- someone in charge by birthright -- probably appeals to less people. So, is there political birthright? And if so, is there a spiritual birthright? Are you born to lead, or taught to lead, or told to lead? Here we are in the most powerful democracy in the world. Did we come to a new, powerful "regime" in America? Of course we did, for the party in office is always a regime of sorts. But, personally, I still want a democratic regime. At any rate, it should bring questions to light regarding the kind of leaders we want and need in the 21st century, as well as the functioning governmental body of elected leaders representing our voice. Some would proclaim leadership to be bold and decisive. Others would proclaim leadership to be reflective, diplomatic and abiding by the collective wishes of the people. Even some believe leaders should be Christian to be truly American. What star are we following? Maybe prosperity is the key word. At any rate, how do we come to the truth about the people who step up and say, "I will lead you to new heights of prosperity"? Of course many ideas will bring you to different kinds of prosperity. Usually, we all see prosperity as having good jobs and money in the bank account. But does that always carry enough responsibility for the overall good? Presently, responsibility is important globally, isn't it? And yet, national security/prosperity can't be undermined, for if you can't swim, you won't be able to dive in and save the drowning soul. So it seems to me that defining the word "global" would be important, because we are more connected by collective prosperity than ever before. We stand on the edge of creating a different world -- I truly believe we do. And the decisions made by all leaders of all free nations will enhance or deter from the global peace that we live in. Growing up within the time of the United Nations and its goal of peace, it is different and difficult to imagine a global world -- all of us -- when you have one super power that takes hold of things and steps up to the plate of war, with few following. Of course, maybe someone has to lead, like it or not. It is still a question for me. Defining defense I don't object to war when defense is needed. But now defense probably has to be redefined. How would you define defense? Is it political, or is it geographical, is it Star Wars, economical, environmental, religious, or even democratic? Certainly the war in Iraq brought all of these things to mind. And unless we attempt to be informed about the issues at large for the world we all live in, we won't know who should lead. United States has been putting people in power in other countries for more than 100 years, a timetable whereby we left isolationalism. And the World Wars created the words "allied cooperation." Then Ruthless Dictators, Nuclear Power, the Communist scare, Viet Nam, Middle East Oil, Global Investment, Ethnic Cleansing...oh, the changes that have brought the question of defense. To fight or not to fight, or in the 20th century, "to police." Each leader's priorities lead us toward or away from some particular posture. Who should lead? Reflection by necessity So, I am covering these various thoughts, because I frankly sit and wonder about it all. I guess I will have to become more informed. Then if I have an opinion, I will stand by it unless persuaded otherwise by other facts or opinions. Of course, who and what to believe is always a question, particularly with so many news sources and quick relays. Openness and honesty Much of the whole truth is quietly covered up. Perhaps another quality we look for is openness and honesty. Can we ever believe anyone running for office? Maybe I am jaded. Truth is never political. Political truth is just a version of something that hopefully appeals to as many people as possible without telling everything. Oh, I don't think open, direct, policy always works unless you have some very blatant ammunition. But in our country, I believe 9/11 gave many people the idea that we had a lot of ammunition. So, I write an article that is entitled the King and I. Times were simpler. You were made King by birthright or power. Today, how do we bring people to a position where they can challenge the present leadership? What do you need to even come to the throne? Do you need to be born into money to run for office? Is the power political, passionate, intellectual, spiritual, practical, or forceful? It isn't that I don't believe in the American democracy, but it will become more of a regime in nature if we don't use our voices. If we don't vote, if we don't start becoming far more aware of the world and problems that challenge every single one of us, not just the person with the crown. At any rate, "Cover your tracks, George, a new day is coming." Others will knock on the King's door, his chamber -- they always do -- for a chance at leadership, at power. Change is always around the proverbial corner. Yet, within this remains the question of who is best suited to lead us and how will we work together responsibly with this leader. Personally, I think a good woman in principal leadership could make things quite interesting. "Queen for a Tiara?" Margaret Simpson Black lives in Milwaukee, Wisc. She is an ordained Minster/Reiki Master/Astrologer and has worked for 16 years providing spiritual counseling and healing through natural gifts and training. Call (414) 645-1998 or e-mail Mari4199@aol.com Copyright © 2003 Margaret Simpson Black |
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