Tom, I don't want to generalize Greenleaf's test so much that it begins to lose meaning and focus. But I certainly do not think it's a logic leap to view taking care of the environment as a service to others.

I don't read Greenleaf's test as pre-requiring that the service is person to person. Instead we can serve others by taking care of their environment. Maybe we improve their place to work or live. Maybe it's the air, water, and earth.

Taking care of any of those environments will lead to those served being allowed to grow as persons and more likely themselves to become servants.

Thank you as always for your thoughtful posts, Tom. Hey it's also fun to read your first ever post!
---Chris
chris | 04.25.09 - 1:18 pm | #

More than ever America needs true servant leaders. We are thirsty for real heart-based leadership models.

I believe this style of leadership begins with trust and believing you the people you lead to do the right thing. Watching over their should hoping they do the right thing is wrong.

Go lead with your heart and believe in people to lift you up and carry you through a blinding storm when it arises. Live with the passion that your best ideas as a leader are those transposed into those you lead.
Spencer | Homepage | 04.26.09 - 12:51 pm | #

Chris,

Thanks for the thoughts. As you probably know, I'm rather found of the "environment".

Spencer,

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts too. Sounds to me like you got a good handle on the power of servant leadership.
Tom Jablonski | 04.30.09 - 10:29 pm | #