Each of us suffers in our own unique way. We may suffer because of how we are treated by other people, or how we see ourselves. Our suffering may be intimately personal, or shared through our family or culture or nation.
Each of us searches for someone who will ease our suffering and pain. Suffering is not fair, and we want someone to give us justice.
We live in times when suffering is shared instantly around the world. Governments, faith communities, families cause suffering that we feel on the other side of the planet. We share the pain; we want justice.
The leaders throughout history who inspire me help people transform suffering into justice.
Some leaders help us remember the deep significance of suffering. Leaders connect us to our own suffering and the suffering we share with other people. Leaders hear, and retell, the story that unites us in our suffering and in our justice.
Leaders know we have the power to transform suffering into justice.
Some leaders focus attention on forgotten suffering. By their actions and example, leaders help us recognize how we are connected to anyone anywhere. Leaders help us understand the suffering we have already forgotten. Leaders remind us how our suffering sparks our thirst for justice.
Some leaders teach us how to transform suffering into tangible actions. Leaders show us there are specific things we can do to help relieve suffering. Leaders help us appreciate how much power we have to turn injustice into justice. Leaders demonstrate that each step toward justice is a step in the right direction.
Leaders know that we are not measured by how much we have suffered, but how much suffering we have transformed.
How do you help transform suffering into justice?
Who will your leadership inspire today?
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