Leadership - A discussion of traits, characteristics, and current news of leaders.

You may have known it was Lincoln’s birthday on Monday. But did you know it was Random Acts of Kindness Week?  Sponsored by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, this week inspires people to practice kindness and to “pass it on” to others. We could all use a little of this tonic. Blogs like Something Good and Casual Keystrokes are helping get the word out.

I don’t know if it was mere coincidence or subtly planned, but it is fitting that Random Acts of Kindness Week kicks off on Lincoln’s birthday. Abraham Lincoln was a leader who among other qualities of character was known for his kind and tender heart.

Grenville Dodge, a Union officer in the Civil War, once stated, "While I was in command of the State of Missouri, there was hardly a day passed but what I saw some evidence of President Lincoln's kindness. The appeals that would go to him from the people whose sons or themselves were in trouble, would always have his attention..."

Lincoln's actions followed his words.  He said to a friend, “I want it said of me by those who know me best to say that I always plucked a thistle and planted a flower when I thought a flower would grow,"

Kindness is a necessary ingredient to leadership.  It does not mean going easy on people or not requiring accountability. Kindness in leadership does not equate to weakness in leadership.  Just the opposite actually.  Providing kindness indicates confidence, self-assurance and inner peace.  These are traits that build trust and appreciation. 

You can check out websites of people that are actively sharing kindness.  The website are organized by state. It is easy to create a website and share your kindness and thereby inspire others. 

In the words of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, “Waste no more time talking about great souls and how they should be. Become one yourself.”