Tip 684: The Leader as Truthteller

From the Leadership Workshops: The Leader as Truthteller

We’ve been talking of how stories and heroes build cultures. Last week, we suggested George Bailey (from Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life) as a model. 

As we put that discussion together, we read how George Bailey challenged Mr. Potter, the villain of Wonderful Life.

Now, hold on, Mr. Potter. You’re right when you say my father was no businessman, but he did help a few people get out of your slums, and what’s wrong with that? 

Doesn’t it make them better citizens? 

Doesn’t it make them better customers? 

You said they had to wait and save their money before they even ought to think of a decent home. Wait? Wait for what? Until their children grow up and leave them? Until they’re so old and broken down that they . . . . Do you know how long it takes a working man to save $5,000? 

Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this “rabble” you’re talking about, they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. Well, is it too much to have them work and pay and live and die in a couple of decent rooms and a bath? 

My father didn’t think so. People were human beings to him. But to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they’re cattle. 

Well, in my book, my father died a much richer man than you’ll ever be.  

George Bailey spoke truth to Mr. Potter’s power. He defended his father’s legacy. He challenged what he thought was wrong and sought to make it right.

A good model. 

We love this stuff.