Some people ask who they are and expect their feelings to tell them. But feelings are flickering flames that fade after every fitful stimulus.

Some people ask who they are and expect their achievements to tell them. But the things we accomplish always leave a core of character unrevealed.

Some people ask who they are and expect visions of their ideal self to tell them. But our visions can only tell us what we want to be, not what we are.

The American dream is the very idea that having nothing allows you to take enough risk that you can achieve anything. There is paradoxical fickleness to the advantage of having nothing to lose, however. By its very nature, it doesn’t last forever. And for those who realize they’ve lost it, it’s impossible to get back.

Whenever a leader has deep-seated control issues rooted in fear, their actions surface repeatedly when placed under stress. Arguments, manipulation of others, and confrontation with subordinates usually follows.

However, a leader who has yielded his life and his work to God can relinquish outcomes to the Lord and let God change things that may go astray. A secure leader realizes God is the source of His power and leadership and he does not need to fear others who may demonstrate leadership qualities. Instead, they are able to affirm them for the sake of the organization.