A few of my friends and colleagues enrolled in the leadership course to improve their leadership skills so they can serve their friends, families, and the temple community better and more productively. As I’m observing them studying and working hard to complete their tasks on time, I reflect on the quote I heard a few years ago:
A leader is someone who has a clear vision, (knows the way) follows that vision, (goes the way) and helps others to find their path (shows the way). — John C. Maxwell
1: Knows the way
A good leader is someone who is first of all a good student. We have all learned the importance of chanting and devotional service. Srila Prabhupada speaks about that practicality in every page of Srimad Bhagavatam. Knowledge is essential for us to become good leaders. Therefore, we must regularly read the scriptures and listen to our superiors to sharpen our spiritual vision. Is knowledge of the scriptures enough to guide people? Of course not! More than simply knowledge is required.
2: Goes the way
Carl Gustav Jung is reputed to have said, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.”
Once we learn about the importance of spiritual practice, we should start applying it ourselves. Srila Prabhupada writes:
Caitanya Caritamrita Madhya 22.109 purport: One has to learn to use a typewriter by following the regulative principles of the typing book.One has to place his fingers on the keys in such a way and practice, but when one becomes adept, he can type swiftly and correctly without even looking at the keys. Similarly, one has to follow the rules and regulations of devotional service as they are set down by the spiritual master; then one can come to the point of spontaneous loving service.
3: Shows the way
We all need spiritual heroes. Our spiritual heroes provide us with knowledge and guidance and inspire us with their example of how to gradually progress on the spiritual path. As we make progress on our spiritual journey, we should eventually also become mentors, teachers and guardians to people who are less seasoned than ourselves.
Srimad Bhagavatam 6.4.44 purport: If one gives the conditioned souls a chance to become Kṛṣṇa conscious, all his activities are approved by the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is extremely pleased
Ananta Gopal Das
27.06.2024
Bhakti Wisdom 