The “leader of leaders” is a rare bird. Most people who are determined just to be themselves have enough difficulty simply doing so. Hence, they are not leaders of leaders but leaders of themselves. Still, the people not beholden to any hierarchy may struggle to be independent souls. I believe those who will be themselves are a relatively small number. Unfortunately, many humans are sheep and part of their herd. Thus, being unique, and distinct while finding ways to make a living despite our many forms of governance makes being one’s true self virtually impossible.
When I had to be part of a group, I did my best to follow the crowd, and the dictates of its leaders, although the leaders changed with the activities. I was told I was a leader, again depending on our gang’s activities. I ran with them from about seven years old to when I enlisted in the Army. School, on the other hand, was not necessary to me. As a kid during the Depression, I only thought about finding work and making a living. I liked the idea of a merchant marine job as it would provide a living and a way to see the world.
I felt my independence even when I was a member of my gang. I suppose being fearless as a kid facing an unknown world excited me. I loved that and looked forward to whatever adventures lay before me. My captain, the 3 Japanese prisoners of war on Okinawa, changed my life, but not my felt need for independence. The G.I. Bill offered me a quality education, and my need to be independent continued to manifest itself. The education system offered me incredible opportunities, but remaining independent as an entrepreneur won out. As you know, Lenette and I built a one-of-a-kind children’s organization and taught powerful people to understand their power.
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