Two young men, in a small coffee shop, taught me about leadership.
George and Tyler left on Christmas Eve to serve at a children’s home in Beirut. They’re back for classes. Yesterday, we met to talk.
During our conversation, I asked a question I’ve never asked.
Overseas travel is new to Tyler. George has been abroad several times. This was George’s second trip to the children’s home.
I was curious about highlights and lowlights. “What happened on your trip?” But, things got rolling when I asked the question I’ve never asked.
“How would you like others to be different after hearing your story?”
I wanted them to think of themselves as men of influence.
Leaders think of themselves with others in mind.
Tyler went first. George is a muller.
Yes:
“I want them to be ready to say yes. Take chances. Don’t put things off.” Tyler said.
We talked about leadership and life principles, while George mulled.
Believe you can:
“I want them to believe they can,” George said.
George heard about the children’s home a couple years ago. There was no organization or group trip. He made the connections and made it happen.
I asked, “What got you started in the first place?
Welding:
“I was excited to teach welding?” George said. (He went to Beirut because of his passion for welding.)
I said, “Isn’t it interesting where a passion to teach welding can take someone?” We talked for a while about using our passions in service to others.
George’s enthusiasm for welding has grown to passion for Middle Eastern culture and a children’s home in Beirut.
He came home thinking about the next time he gets to go back.
Leadership lessons from the coffee shop:
- Say yes.
- Believe you can.
- Follow your passion.
Passion thinks next time.
What surprising place has your passion taken you?
How would you like others to be different because of your story?
