“Strive to lead them with love and with a mild and kindly hand...” Angela's Third Legacy
Whether we are teacher, coach, staff member, parent, daughter, administration or just a friend, St. Angela’s philosophy was to always be kind and gentle with one another. Each person we encounter comes with a history and “baggage” we may never fully know or understand. Therefore, St. Angela advises that we treat each other with utmost respect and gentleness.
All of us are well-intentioned people who want to be followers of the Gospel values of love, charity, understanding and compassion as Jesus so well showed us. Yet there are moments in our day, or days in our week, that drain our energies and pull us down. It is at these times when we ask for the graces to continue to STRIVE to be good examples of what it means to lead.
Leading with love is more about influencing and inspiring others. It is not about power and authority. Leading has more to do with challenging in positive ways, and sharing in mutual purpose and goals. It involves enthusiasm, motivation, recognition of the gifts of others, and being a good listener.
Beneath all this lies the value of respecting another’s opinion, allowing the other to voice his/her ideas and involving others in decision-making, especially if it involves them personally. Leading with a kindly and mild hand can only lead to self-confidence, self-respect, understanding and acceptance.
We are all called to STRIVE toward Jesus’ model of leadership.
Sister Donna Frey, OSU
Ursuline and Catholic Identity