Mother as Leader

Mothers Day is this weekend. It is the first Mothers Day Ive not bought a card in my whole life. My mother is no longer here, having recently passed. The hole is large in my heart. When I think of some of the positive characteristics of organizational leaders my Mother keeps coming to mind. She was brave and courageous facing challenges most would have given up on. She was giving and caring, encouraging and supportive. She wanted only the best for her children helping us face life by teaching us skills and lessons. My Mom listened deeply to our joys,struggles, and achievements- never judging, simply being there. We could count on Mom to pull the family together, to connect us. She planned and organized incredible events and let us all shine in the process.  My Mother was my mentor and the first leader I knew.  She took initiative and empowered my sisters to be ourselves. I am the leader I am today because my Mother encouraged me to be me, to live my potential. The space she carved out for us in the world is what gave us room to grow. Celebrate Mothers everywhere as leaders today. If ever there was a true servant leader it must be a Mother.