New Beginnings

Like so many around the world, we find our thoughts leaping to the hopeful: new beginnings, positive change, a leap toward values that really matter.

We've also discovered, through our dear friend the Celtic harpist and singer Áine Minogue, the poetry of John O'Donahue. His poem "For a Leader" struck us as a  simple yet profound wish for those who seek what's strong and good in the world.

For a Leader

May you have the grace and wisdom to act kindly,
 learning to distinguish between what is personal and what is not.

May you be hospitable to criticism.

May you never put yourself at the centre of things.

May you act not from arrogance but out of service.

May you work on yourself, 
building up and refining the ways of your mind.

May those who work for you know you see and respect them.

May you learn to cultivate the art of presence 
in order to engage with those who meet with you.

When someone fails or disappoints you, 
may the graciousness with which you engage 
be their stairway to renewal and refinement.