In Search Of...[uncommon] Leadership!

The longer I live [my kids would re-state that to say, "the older dad becomes"], the more I long for all things [uncommon].  What comes to mind when you hear that word?  For me, the mental radar begins pulling up pictures of people, places, and events that stand head and shoulders above the crowd:

•  A wife with unbelievable patience, unwavering support, and a belief that I am a pretty cool guy, even when I don't feel that way about myself.
• Five amazing kids, two daughter's-in-law, and one son-in-law that are the greatest source of joy a parent could ever imagine.
• Eight grandchildren that are future world-changers [what do you expect from offspring of the aforementioned five kids and spouses?].
• Unforgettable scenes from Alaska [like the picture in this header].
•  A Thomas Kinkade painting.
  
• Nordstrom customer service - I buy a pair of shoes in Seattle, discover the fit is tight, try to exchange in Atlanta only to discover they are out of that style.  When the salesperson learns that I have a meeting in Charlotte later that day, he calls ahead to have the replacement pair ready for me there.  The shoes are wrapped, bagged, and ready upon my arrival.  Not only that, but the salesperson calls me by name as I approach the desk.  Have I mentioned...I love this place?
• The Lincoln Memorial - a vivid reminder of the untold sacrifice, struggle and commitment that helped to shape this great country.
• Renaissance Hotel; Charlotte Suites - where every time I check in, Andrew, Falecia, Amber and crew greet me by name, have my room ready, keys prepared, and ask about my family.
•  Red Sox/Yankees game at Fenway - the best venue in the world to watch the best rivalry in sports.
• Marty - a friend who demonstrated such unimaginable grace in the face of unspeakable loss that it was apparent he walks closely with God.
• Flying on a silky-smooth morning and watching the sun rise.
• The Barons - my son's baseball team that has captured the high school homeschool world series the past two years.
• Albert - my friend who makes it fun to shop [and spend money] at Costco.
• Aaron - an amazing, young worship leader filled with wisdom beyond his years.
• Jamie - the former cop, CIA agent, pastor, and missionary with unbelievable stories of impact.  
• Ray Johnston - pastor of one of America's fastest growing churches who sincerely considers the interests of others as more important than his own. 
• Capt. "Sulley" - US Air pilot of Miracle on the Hudson.

Wherever we turn, we find the common.  No one questions the fact that the ordinary, the mundane, and the run of the mill stare us in the face every day.  What once passed for "customer service," could today best be described "customer tolerance" or "customer indifference."   So, when we do experience the extraordinary; people, places, events, or occurrences that are [uncommon]; we long for more.

The good news is this - we can make a difference.  We were created for greatness, not "commonness." [uncommon] Leadership shares the belief that each person:

• Is created for a specific purpose in this life.
• Has been equipped with the exact personality, skill-set, and gift mix needed to accomplish that purpose.
• Is designed for a thrilling walk of faith that will take them beyond themselves, allowing them to be a difference-maker in ways they never dreamed possible.
• Can expand his or her capacity to the point of becoming an [uncommon] leader!

In the days ahead, we will look together at the stories of ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things...leaving an imprint that will last a lifetime.  We will discover and document many of the people, principles and practices that have been woven together to weave a beautiful tapestry.  A tapestry of...[uncommon] Leadership!

Welcome aboard; I hope you'll enjoy the journey.