The official definition of greatness is the quality of being great, distinguished, or eminent. Often we see individuals who can rally people together and generate a change; they
have an impact. However, these individuals aren’t looking for fame or power; they are simply trying to make a difference. The individuals who utilize their gift to impact the lives they come in contact with positively are those who consciously or unconsciously have tapped into their greatness. As Dr. King said,
“Everyone has the power for greatness, not for fame but greatness, because greatness is determined by service.”
Have you ever seen a power-hungry person? They want more, and they want it at whatever cost, no matter how much authority and power they achieve. These people frequently tear others down to elevate themselves up, which does not have to be the case. Consider New York, which has a plethora of skyscrapers and structures. However, one does not have to get demolished to construct another; likewise, servitude is the measure of genuine leadership.
The power-hungry leader is only interested in themselves. They intend to climb the ladder and cut the rungs behind them so that no one else can ascend. They like hierarchical organizations because they allow them to be at the top and force others to kneel if they want a promotion. They create a glass ceiling that only a select few can ever breakthrough. Of course, the puppet master has complete power over those chosen few. Power-hungry leaders are like black holes in that they consume all the light around them. However, whereas the size of black holes never decreases, those power-hungry leaders are preparing for a nasty fall.
But how can power-hungry leaders be weeded out? First, if it is someone who is in a management position, we need to increase accountability. We cannot allow power-hungry to hide in the shadows like a marvel villain; we must shine a light on accountability, showing who is seeking to serve and who isn’t. Authentic leadership calls for genuine servitude. Secondly, we need to increase communication. I am not referring to a simple hi and bye on the highway, but intentional conversations about the mission, the organization’s vision, and how everyone plays a part in its realization.
But what do we do when the person at the top is power-hungry? You have two options: you can be the change you wish to see or start planning your escape from Alcatraz. Each option has its level of difficulty and uncertainty. Suppose you stay and try to display a true level of greatness. In that case, you will be fighting against the current of an organization led by some draconian leader who will not let you rise. However, planning your escape will call for careful planning and bold decision-making. We sometimes are in financial positions which do not allow us to walk away; cautious planning is required. And regardless if you stay or leave, there is no right or wrong, but I would not encourage anyone to be in a place where the only sky you see in the bottom of someone else shoe.
Great leaders seek to inspire, lead by example, invest, and share the sugar. In servitude, you cannot be an insecure leader. An insecure leader will be intimidated when someone else shines; however, a great leader will create a moment so that others could indeed shine. They celebrate others, remove barriers and look for solutions. Greatness will bring power to your doorsteps, but being power-hungry will leave you starving, never really fulfilled nor satisfied.
What made Jesus such a great leader was that he often called people to follow him and imitate his steps. This means that Jesus wasn’t calling people to do something he wasn’t willing to do; he wasn’t a “do as I say, not as I do” type of leader. Not only did Jesus lead by example, but he was aware of the limitations and challenged those around him faced. He wasn’t oblivious to the type of temper Peter had, not to John’s love, not to the habits Judas Iscariot had. He was willing to listen, to love, to correct, and instruct.
Greatness doesn’t seek power; it seeks to serve. But in the process, power is awarded. And if we have learned anything from Spider-Man, it’s that with great power comes great responsibility.
