The Leader's Character
by
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Another way to capture this idea of caring about character and virtue is simply this: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This portion of the session is subtitled, “Why should we care about character and virtue?” We should care about character and virtue as leaders because many others do not. It is one thing to talk about character and virtues in public, but it is an entirely different matter for one to live a life of character and virtue. Would a (character) virtue-development program have made a difference in the life of Derek Chauvin? Would a (character) virtue-development program have made a difference in the lives of the insurrectionists on January 6, 2021? We are too late to answer that question for them, but we can make an effort to answer it for others—particularly for those we lead. Individually, I may not be able to change or influence the entire world, but as a leader with virtue and character, I am determined to make the best possible effort every day for those I lead. As each day transitions into the next in the very busy lives we all lead, we sometimes forget what has happened in the past. Spanish-born American philosopher George Santayana said, “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Virtue and character development are not just for our schools or early childhood education. To live a virtuous life carries the connotation of a life of solid moral conduct, particularly moral excellence. Virtues are qualities of the mind, the will, and the heart that instill strength of character and stability of personality. Plato’s four main virtues of prudence, justice, courage, and temperance (self-control)—the “cardinal virtues”—are those upon which all other virtues hinge. As Santayana reminded us, lessons of the past ought to prepare us for the future. As it is in any profession or occupation, these traits must be practiced and made habits in order for us to become competent as virtuous people or leaders. A virtuous style of leadership is realized when this is accomplished, and it makes a difference in the organizational world to which we belong.
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About the Book
The Department Of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms defines responsibility as, the obligation to carry forward an assigned task to a successful conclusion. With responsibility comes authority to direct and take the necessary action to ensure success. Simply put, the practicing and developing leader has the ability to respond." This book is about the leader's responsibility to never stop reinforcing and developing character that people want to follow. No organization is going to place someone in a position of responsibility without trusting or believing that the leader possesses the character and necessary ability for successful accomplishment of it's most important task; leading the organization's people.
About the Author
Dr. Cruell holds the distinct privilege of serving as the 2nd African American Chaplain in the over 200-year history of the United States Military Academy, West Point from June 2000 - June 2005. In addition, Dr. Cruell served as the Ethics Instructor at the United States Army and Armor Center, Fort Knox, Kentucky from June 1998 – May 2000. His highest military award is the Legion of Merit. He has a Doctorate in Leadership from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Master of Philosophy (Ethics) degree from Georgia State University. Dr. Cruell is also a graduate of the United States Army Command and General Staff College. Dr. Cruell has been faithfully married to his wife and best friend Deirdre for 40 years. They are the proud parents of 3 children and 12 grandchildren. Dr. Cruell’s mission is to “Make A Difference Through Mentorship” and you make a difference one life at a time.