March 8 Minute Message

Listen to the Audio

Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf said, “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character.  But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.”  Hi, I’m Tom Ellsworth from Sherwood Oaks Christian Church with a minute message.

Character is essential in all that we do, but especially in the roles of leadership we may fill.  Certain truths apply to us regardless of our position:  company president, military officer, teacher, politician, plant supervisor, minister or parent.  Character is indispensable in working with people and since most leadership roles involve a certain amount of authority character becomes even more critical.  Abraham Lincoln said, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.”  Or as the old saying goes, “Character is what you are when no one is looking.”  A mother caught her child telling a story the neighbor had shared in confidence.  The mother asked, “If Mrs. Procter had asked you to watch her purse, would you give away the money in it?”  “No, mom, that’s her money,” he answered.  “Exactly,” she responded, “and that story is Mrs. Procter’s too; it’s not yours to give away.”  There is no substitute for genuine character – true leadership demands it!