Monday, October 17, 2011

Those who don't wait lead: thoughts on the loss of three leaders


"They" say these things come in threes and "they," whoever they are, are right. It has been a tough few weeks for working through the loss of three major leaders. I know there are more, but right now I am talking about three huge losses; Frank Kameny, Steve Jobs and Wangari Maathai. While I never had the honor of knowing these leaders in person, I mourn their loss because they helped craft what I consider cornerstones for who I am: respect for human dignity, creativity and peace.

Frank Kameny 86 (May 21, 1925-October 11, 2011)
Gay Rights Activist
While his death is marked by impeccable timing (he apparently died on national coming out day), Kameny's passing is mourned not only by those in the LGBT community, but also those who believe in the basic human right and Jesuit tradition of respect for human dignity. Kameny's work transcended the gay rights movement and presented a new paradigm of tolerance and respect for humanity. Kameny is credited with the slogan "Gay is good" and for bravely fighting against second-class citizenry of the gay and ultimately LGBT community. Kameny who has been referred to as an authentic hero of American culture, is a true leader. While Kameny was not always liked, and didn't always win, he persevered. His tenacious spirit will always be remembered.

Steve Jobs 56  (February 24, 1955 - October 5, 2011)
Inventor and Entrepreneur
The outpouring of emotion upon gaining the knowledge of Steve Jobs death was amazing. Our generation lost not only a genius, but a friend. Such a familiar face and voice of inspiration. Imagine the world without Apple as we know it today. Can you fathom no iPod? No iPhone? Apple was not Jobs' only company. Jobs can take credit for the success of several corporations including Pixar, NeXT and Lucasfilms LTD.  In addition to these innovative companies, jobs was just a downright inspirational human. I cried the first time I watched this TED speech from 2005. Watching it now I have a hard time determining whether it is because he is gone, or because it is so inspiring or both. I think both. The loss of Steve Jobs is a reminder of the unbridled power creativity can bring.

Wangari Maathai 71 (April 1, 1940 - September 25, 2011)
Activist, Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize
Wangari Maathai was an environmental activist who was also the first African woman to be awarded the prize. Perhaps her most known movement is the Green Belt Movement, but she was the incarnation of her commitment to make the world a better place. Ms. Maathai fought on the front lines to end poverty and stop environmental degradation and was often met with struggle and violence for her commitment truth. Her commitment to leadership and realization that "Leaders can't quit," is a clear example of what it means to be a leader. Ms. Maathai was set to speak at Gonzaga University just a few days before her death. Her voice and passion will not be silenced.

Imagine, how our world would look without these leaders. Imagine what a loss it would be if they didn't rise up to lead us down a road that might be scary because of the truth it is paved with. At some point those we follow made the decision to lead. Now, imagine you are the one with the potential to lead. This doesn't mean protests, gigantic corporations or global movements. But, it starts with fundamental beliefs and standing up for them. And then having the strength to persevere. The world is waiting for more leaders.    

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