Freely Give
Leadership Thought of the Day
Today I had the pleasure to participate in the ground breaking ceremony for the “Taubman Complex, Home of the Marburger STEM Center” on the campus of Lawrence Technological University in Southfield Michigan. This beautifully designed building will connect the existing Engineering Building with the Science Building and will be home to many innovative and collaborative student projects. Several dignitaries spoke at the occasion, including the man whose name is on the building, A. Alfred Taubman. Alfred Taubman is a renowned real estate developer and a philanthropist in the Michigan area. He had attended LTU, and this was yet another chance for him to “give back” with a large challenge grant, one that was soon matched. It was stated during his introduction that in his life, Mr. Taubman has donated “a quarter of a billion dollars” to various charitable causes.That number amazed me. Giving away that much money to me means that, a.) This is a rare person who can and who would give away that much money, and b.) He must have made a boatload of money in real estate!
As I thought about the impact one can have on the world with this magnitude of giving I could not help but think of the impact that the gift of leadership has on the world. Leadership is a force multiplier that can impact many people’s lives, and do so for a good long time. In like fashion, perhaps it would be good to look at leadership through the same philanthropic lens. When one can “give away” good leadership, they are giving away something that can be even more valuable that a pile of money. Think of the blessings we enjoy as Americans by the leadership provided by our founding fathers. Think of the freedoms we enjoy, and the prosperity we can earn through the effective influence of great leaders in our communities and in our businesses. Think of the comfort and support we can have in our families provided by the leadership of loving parents.
I think this idea of “giving away” leadership is especially true when it comes to training other leaders. Wheat only grows from wheat, corn only grows from corn, and leadership only grows from other leaders. When you have the chance to help coach, mentor and train other leaders, do it with a willing and giving heart. It is really a gift that can change the world.
Stay Strong,
Terry
