By: Michael D. Ringrose
There is an issue at present dividing Americans and New Yorkers in particular concerning the proposed building of a Mosque by the Islamic Community in close promimity to Ground Zero. Opinions are starkly divided, with those opposed suggesting it is grossely offensive to the memory of those men, women and children who died as a result of the dreadful events of what has become known as 9/11.
The President of the United States has expressed a view that Americans should permit the building of the Mosque. Opponents have, in many instances, been vitriolic in their opposition to the position he has taken.
Leadership, however, ought never to be in the hands of those who forever must first test the wind to determine in which direction it is blowing. There are far too many examples of such individuals occupying positions of power and responsibility.
Those who are interested in true Leadership ought always to support those Leaders who express in such a clear, succinct and coherent manner the core values they believe in. Additionally, President Obama is articulating the core values expressed in the American Constitution. Fundamentally, the President is clearly sending a signal to the American people and to the world at large, that Americans are endeavouring to be true to the principles outlined in the Constitution and what they say is what they believe to be true.
The reputation of America and all that it holds dear was damaged with the revelations of what was happening in Quantanamo Prison. America was perceived as a Country that held Human Rights and Fundamental Feedom in such high esteem and indeed, sacrificed thousands of its sons and daughters in defending those rights in various parts of the world. Individuals in Quantanamo demonstated a chasm between the preaching and the practice.
That concept of speaking the truth and believing in what you are saying has become somewhat of a rarety amongst politians, not only in America but across the world. Consequently, young people have become disinterested, many middle-aged have become cynical and older generations feel they are increasingly being betrayed.
It is important to have values. It is important to respect the values sincerely held by others. It is not enough to just say that we believe in freedom of speech, freedom of expression, freedom of religious practice. Of course common sense and the law must interpret when the exercise of such rights endangers others or the public at large. For example, it is not "Ok" to shout "Fire" in a crowded theatre just for the fun of it. It clearly and unnecessarily endangers others and claiming your right to freedom of expression holds little weight.
It is also important to distinguish between the acts of individuals and groups acting on their own behalf from those of the country or religion that they may be citizens of or claim to represent.
It takes a daily dose of courage and a confident believe in the values you hold dear to stand up and be counted. It is a mark of great leadership. It is, more importantly, the responsibility of great leadership. Those who exercise their duty and responsibility in such a positive and courageous manner ought to receive our support and admiration.
Michael D. Ringrose
www.eLeadershipGuide.com
