In addition to all of the ratios and goals and parameters and bottom lines, it is fundamental that leaders endorse a concept of persons. This begins with an understanding of the diversity of people's gifts and talents and skills. Recognizing diversity gives us the chance to provide meaning, fulfillment and purpose, which are not to be relegated solely to private life any more than such things as love, beauty and joy. The art of leadership lies in polishing and liberating and enabling those gifts.

In most vital organizations, there is a common bond of interdependence, mutual interest, interlocking contributions, and simple joy.

The signs of outstanding leadership appear primarily among the followers. Are the followers reaching their potential? Are they learning? Serving? Do they achieve the required results? Do they change with grace? Manage conflict?

Trust comes only with genuine effort, never with a lick and a promise.

A whale is as unique as a cactus. But don't ask a whale to survive Death Valley. We all have special gifts. Where we use them and how determines whether we actually complete something.

When trust permeates a ministry, great things are possible, not the least of which is an opportunity to reach the ministry's potential.

We do not grow by knowing all of the answers, but rather by living with the questions.