An ancestor of mine, Charles Carroll of Carrollton, Maryland, was one of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Having a personal connection to that momentous act of leadership certainly makes history come alive. The representatives of the thirteen colonies at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia boldly set forth their vision for a new, independent nation, and the Revolutionary War ensued. Most of us today do not realize the personal price that many of those signers paid ~ some were imprisoned, some lost their health, property, wealth, loved ones, and/or their livelihoods. Those were serious times and those individuals were courageous as well as idealistic. (For additional historical details, here’s a good website.)

Food for Thought ~

Most of my leadership work and that of my clients and colleagues involves the effective management of groups, organizations and businesses. But sometimes leaders are called to go beyond their day-to-day responsibilities and step into greater leadership roles. Great leaders stand up for what they believe and are prepared to make sacrifices if needed. The names Churchill, Mandela, King and Gandhi come to mind, just to name a very few. There are innumerable issues in the world and in our own communities today that need leadership. Let us honor those who hear and heed that call.

Question of the day ~

Have you felt called to take your leadership skills above and beyond your own organization?