Passings

John Madden died at age 85. A legend in American football, both college and professional levels. He taught and coached kids to be the best they could be. Many did just that. They played professional sports and he moved up to coach those players. He did and they won games, divisional championships and super bowl games. Madden was a leader and developer of people. He became a superb sports commentator and play by play announcer for TV audiences. He will be missed but his legend and legacy continue.

Same with Harry Reid, past US Senator from Nevada, and Senate Minority Leader for many years. He died at 82 from pancreatic cancer. He was a stalwart leader of the Democrats when the White House was in the hands of Republicans. Harry worked tirelessly to advance important legislation even when political opposition was against him. His philosophy was – “If it’s good for the American people, we fight for it and win!” And he did just that. In spite of the odds, Harry Reid was a detail guy who worked to win the big issues for the people. His leadership, ability to cross political divisions, and make a lasting difference in his nation, will be sorely missed. Like John Madden, however, his legacy continues even if the remaining Senators appear incapable on agreeing on anything.

Bob Dole lived a long and eventful life. From the battlefields of World War II, to community work and leadership, Bob Dole went on to serve in the House of Representatives and the US Senate. He ran for the presidency twice and lost, but throughout his political career he reached out to friends and opponents as colleagues. He worked for what was good for the nation and her people. He did not work for himself. His leadership has been sorely missed.

So it goes. People come and go, most often without our noticing. Those closest to us are missed. They are our loves and friends. They will be missed by us. The grieving goes on and we cope with such losses. But the national soul grieves for its lost leaders when leadership is in dire shortage. Pretend leaders are always with us. True leaders are the ones missed when they are gone. Unfortunately, we are missing a lot of talent these days.

Think about it. If a presidential election were held today, who would we have to choose among for leaders of our respective political parties? Do the republicans have a clear leader to press forward? Do the Democrats? No. Neither party has a clear chosen one. Then move on down the slate, who would be a great leader in the House of Representatives from either party? Or Senate Majority Leader of the Senate? Who would serve the people of the United States best? Who is prepared for this duty?

The answer is pitiful. No one is ready to step up. Only the pretenders will offer their voice.

Succession planning in corporations and business organizations is an important process. Why not in government circles?

Good question!

December 31, 2021

 

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