HARMONY - March 2013

DEAR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF SGI,

This month we look at tomorrow’s Leader Today.

What does it mean to be a leader in today’s world and what does it mean to be a leader for the future? does a leader have to be smarter, richer and more powerful than others? Is leadership a position of authority where you can order people around, control them, have them do your bidding?

The word ‘leader’ has many different meanings. It can be interpreted as the head of a company or organization, like a president, chief, or boss. It can also be used to describe a pioneer, an innovator or front-runner. Whichever your interpretation of leadership is, one thing is clear:for our society to grow and evolve, it is crucial that the new generation, those younger than us, develop further than us, in all possible ways.

The world is rapidly changing and daily life is becoming increasingly challenging and complex. Future leaders must be capable of taking the most appropriate action for victory, but must have the wisdom to do so for the greater good, not at the expense of others. To develop such insight and act in an ethical, fair manner will become even more important as time goes on. Developing the ability and capacity to do so will be vital for any good leader.

So the question becomes: how do we, as individuals, an organization or a society, prepare ourselves and others, to live and develop in the most value-creating way possible? What are some of the key traits that should be developed to become the best person possible for the future?

Having a sound life-philosophy is the essential foundation for this development. It must be a philosophy that recognizes and treasures the true value of each individual and allows everyone, not just a select few, to develop, cultivate and manifest their full potential.

Another key ingredient for developing great leadership skills is choosing a great mentor in life. One with whom we have a shared interest and commitment for the happiness of all as the cornerstone.

We are fortunate that in the Soka Gakkai we have such a mentor in President Ikeda and the previous presidents of the Soka Gakkai. We embrace a philosophy that allows us to manifest our greater self through a sincere Buddhist Practice.

We hope that you enjoy this issue of Harmnoy and find it helpful to identify how we can raise tomorrow’s leaders today.

Skip Williams

Quote of the month
“When you think, ‘I can’t do anymore. I need a break,’ that is the time to challenge yourself to keep going another five minutes. Those who persevere for even an extra five minutes will win in life.”
www.ikedaquotes.org
Available at all HKSGI Culture Centres