Those who are preparing for leadership need immersion in some form of community: a group of people who both support and challenge us and invite the expression of our creativity, energy, and love, a place where we are stimulated intellectually and wehre we are personallly affirmed. In such a group and environment, questions are welcomed, stories are shared, and knowledge of our spiritual traditions is freely given. .... The important thing is connecting in depth with a supportive gorup, a vibrant community, .... and thus opening up a larger reality, a "higher power" greater than oueself.
Everyone is called to such generative leadership, especially as a person grows older: helping others name their talents, clarify their dreams, and fulfilling their potential.
All true leadership is intrinsically related to mentoring: leading people to new perspectives, faciliating personal and institutional growth, encouraging the discernment of vocational possibilities. ..... Mentors should be chosen because of the wisdom they have acquired, the overall quality of their lives, and their willingness to share their struggles without pretention.
Such a leader/mentor ... has the gift to truly in-spire: to infuse, animate, breathe into us enthusiasm for our gifts and our own sacred journey.
Edward Sellner, Cassian and the Elders: Formation & Spiritual Direction in the Desert & Today, CSR, Volume 36.4, 2001
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