A leader is one who... Has more faith in people than they do, and . . . who holds opportunities open long enough for their competence to re-emerge.

In this new world, you and I make it up as we go along, not because we lack expertise or planning skills, but because that is the nature of reality. Reality changes shape and meaning because of our activity. And it is constantly new. We are required to be there, as active participants. It can't happen without us and nobody can do it for us.

Listening is a reciprocal process - we become more attentive to others if they have attended to us.

For us, someone who is willing to step forward and help is much more courageous than someone who is merely fulfilling the role.

These days, our senses are bombarded with aggression. We are constantly confronted with global images of unending, escalating war and violence.

One of the easiest human acts is also the most healing. Listening to someone. Simply listening. Not advising or coaching, but silently and fully listening.

Most people associate command and control leadership with the military.