Now that the political races are over (except for some interesting people in Florida), I try to re-focus on education and leadership. I quickly realize that politics in education is a continuing endeavor, and there is no break from the political game within education. This is a difficult area for me because I believe genuine relationships can be one of the most important parts about not only your employment, but also your life. I believe in only a few close friends over the many, not-so-close social circles that some subscribe t, because it gives me a sense of genuine value in conversations. With real friends, we can express our opinions, and we are enriched by others real, unfiltered opinions. We learn different perceptions and are able to see situations in lens that may be different from ours with getting offended.
In politics and in some education-based relationships, this cannot be the case. Posturing, powerful filters (which I am continuing to develop), and silence is often what needs to be done so as not to offend someone who might hold some sort of 'power' over your ability to lead and promote within an educational organization. Since this is the case, why isn't there a course that helps leaders work and thrive in this politically charged career we have chosen? It could be taught right after the course on how to deal with difficult parents.
We meet people who have the personality of 'once-we-meet-we-are-friends-for-life' and we can all picture that person immediately. We also have friends who are reserved at first, and if interests and circumstances allow, we develop friendships with those people that are stable and reliable. While both kinds of friendships can be valuable and enriching in their own way, they certainly are different. I can only hope that I leave behind a sense of genuineness in my children regarding relationships, and I also hope that I am seen as a genuine friend who is reliable and valued, even if my beliefs are different from yours.
Wait, there was a class on how to deal with difficult parents? I must have missed that one!
ReplyDeleteThanks for this post Gary. Did anyone hear the segment of "This American Life" called "Red State Blue State" (11/1/12)? If not, I highly encourage it.
We need to get over ourselves and our differences. Remember who we are, regardless of who we voted for last Tuesday. If not, we pass on the bitterness and the divisiveness to the next generation.
Gary,
ReplyDeleteThis is the type of reflection that will not only help you grow as a leader, but will help anyone dealing with the same topic. Thank you for learning/thinking out loud. . .
much respect,
jeff
Hi Gary,
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jeff. When you reflect like this, it helps to clarfy some things. You may not have direct answers but at least you're aware, and you're thinking about it. That, to me, is the most important part in recognizing what's going on. Keep up the good work. By the way, you and I are more a like than I thought by virtue of what you just shared. :)
~Karina
Now you have me wondering...What part of my post makes us alike? Our Cohort really does need a time to get together socially and chill over good food, good music, and great company. Life just keeps getting in the way during this doctorate. Maybe after we turn the tassels in May 2014....
DeleteThanks for taking the time to read and comment on my blog.