A lesson in Leadership
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A lesson in Leadership
2017-06-29
From a story I heard the other day:
A DEA officer stopped by our farm yesterday “I need to inspect your farm for illegally growing drugs.”
I said, “Okay, but don’t go in that field over there…”
The DEA officer verbally exploded saying, “Mister, I have the authority of the Federal Government with me!” Reaching into his rear pants pocket, the arrogant officer removed his badge and shoved it in my face. “See this badge?! This badge means I am allowed to go wherever I wish…On any land!! No questions asked or answers given!! Have I made myself clear?….do you understand?!!”
I nodded politely, apologized, and went about my chores. A short time later, I heard loud screams, looked up, and saw the DEA officer running for his life, being chased by my big old mean bull…With every step the bull was gaining ground on the officer, and it seemed likely that he’d get gored before reaching safety. The officer was terrified.
I threw down my tools, ran to the fence and yelled at the top of my lungs….
“The badge……Show him the badge!!!”
Lesson #1: Authority is not a weapon, but instead a tool to serve with.
Lesson #2: Listen to those under your authority, you might learn something.
Lesson #3: The character of a man can be seen in the way he leads.
Lesson #4: Instead of grabbing your badge turn up your hearing aid. It could save you some pain in the “end”.
Lesson #5: If you act like a farm animal you’re likely to be chased by one.
What are some leadership lessons you could add from this story?