lawyer leadership in the wake of natural disasters
In this article, my friend Stewart Levine fuels an interesting conversation about the opportunity for personal growth and leadership presented to lawyers by Hurricane Katrina and other recent natural disasters. Stating that within "every tragedy lies an opportunity," Levine poses these questions for our consideration: "What is the leadership lawyers can provide? [ ] How can we assert ourselves in a way that fosters thoughtful discussion of issues and concerns? How can we engender a spirit of resolve, resolution and useful action? How can we be a stalwart resource for people close to us? How can we be a symbol, a beacon of hope in a darkened landscape?" He goes on to outline three core Leadership Competencies (Models of Reality, Personal Authority and Honor and Gratitude) and four Leadership Behaviors (Impeccability, Learning, Powerful Voice, Motivating Purpose and Meaning). Levine believes that each of us possesses these competencies and models these behaviors when engaged in our "best work" - which he defines as work that's "more a function of who you are than any schooling or learned skill." I've been contemplating Levine's inquiries, especially in light of the poignant, eyewitness accounts of Katrina and its aftermath provided by fellow blogger Ernest Svenson. It certainly seems that nature is compelling us all to consider our place on this planet at this time and to envision what we want to leave behind for our children and future generations.
