I chose the quote "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth" by Mohammad Ali.
Service and community are central to my theology. I am driven to make this world better in any way I can. While I believe that a single person can create a ripple that can change the world, I understand that a community behind that ripple can transform it to a wave. This quote represents both elements of my theology. I believe that God has provided this place for us because how we spend our time here is important. More importantly that good works bring us closer to God.
It is a helpful reminder of why I was drawn to leadership and seminary in the first place, to make a difference. My leadership style is molded by the belief that nothing builds morale in a group like a leader that mirrors the expectations she hopes to see in those she leads. When those you lead understand that you are willing to make sacrifices for them, they will repay you with loyalty in your vision and in your shared goal. In short trust is an invaluable asset in any organization.
The downside to this leadership style is that you can get burned out because the world is never healed and life is never perfect. I have often corrected this tendency by creating boundaries. Most importantly I need them for myself so that I don’t become overwhelmed and tread water or lose focus. I have needed them with those I lead so that they understand that while I am accessible, I need ownership over my time away from the group to refuel.