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| [Photo: Kari Greer/USFS] |
These are unprecedented times...at least for me anyways. However, this time in history is really just that—a time in history. There have been worse pandemics, worse leaders, etc. For heaven's sakes, there were dinosaurs wandering this planet at one time. But this is our time and our adventure, and the only way to get through it is to go through it.
I know that sounds like I may be minimalizing the magnitude of the situation. That is not my intention. In fact, I am just coming out of a bout of depression. Enough so, that the writer's block has lifted to the point I can actually put words to my feelings. It is you, the followers of the WFLDP blog, that keep me motivated and engaged. It is your willingness to allow for vulnerability that keeps the wheels turning. (This video says a lot about why I do what I do.)
Over the past few years, I have researched a number of leadership philosophies in order to give our followers different perspectives. Leadership is an art and as such you get to craft your own. One of the philosophies that is getting me through this recent bout of depression is Stocism (coupled with a huge dose of mindfulness). I have found it a calming experience. I am choosing to be present and trying to identify the things within my control. I have a choice to influence history or be formed by it. I have a choice to uphold my values or be led by those who subscribe to a different theory. I get to choose! And so do you.
Leadership is action. It matters not the magnitude of the influence you exert. What matters is that you do something. That small flutter you make may become a movement. I challenge you to move through whatever crisis or situation you find yourselves. Just like the butterfly story, we must struggle to become stronger.
May you act with courage and wisdom. May resilience be yours.
Wildland Fire Leadership Challenge - Digging a Little Deeper
How might your actions shape the future? What can your influence do for someone else?
- Check out Edward Lorenz's butterfly effect.
About the Author: Pam McDonald is a writer/editor for BLM Wildland Fire Training and Workforce Development and member of the NWCG Leadership Subcommittee. The expressions are those of the author.
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