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.

A friend of mine characterizes leaders simply like this: Leaders don't inflict pain. They bear pain.

There may be no single thing more important in our efforts to achieve meaningful work and fulfilling relationships than to learn to practice the art of communication.

No question about it: potential is wrapped in great mystery. Like rainbows, which are really circles-we see only the upper halves, the horizon hides the rest-potential never reveals its entirety.

Change without continuity is chaos. Continuity without change is sloth-and very risky.

Understanding the diversity of our gifts enables us to begin taking the crucial step of trusting each other.

Without forgiveness, there can be no real freedom to act within a group.