Light and Dark: Navigating the Complexities of Our Shadows
I blogged about shadows before in Our True Essence. That post was inspired by George MacDonald, who in Phatastes, used the metaphor of Anodos’ shadow to represent his inner and negative emotions. In that blog entry I said, “He (Anodos) was glad to lose his shadow because it symbolized letting go of his past traumas and struggles, allowing him to move forward with a sense of lightness and freedom. Losing his shadow enabled Anodos to embrace personal growth and transformation. In Phantastes we learned the importance of embracing all aspects of ourselves, even the parts we may want to hide or ignore. It serves as a reminder to always stay connected to our inner selves and not let external influences cloud our true essence.” Yesterday, as I was taking a walk on the beach, I noticed my shadow – because of the angle of the sun, it was really tall (see featured photo).
While standing there on the beach studying my shadow, I pondered the idea of the metaphor of a shadow indeed having positive connotations. While George MacDonald may have depicted the shadow as a representation of negative aspects or unresolved issues, it could also symbolize protection, depth, and the complexities of our existence. Just as a shadow adds dimension to a landscape, our shadows can represent the depth of our experiences. They remind us that our past, both light and dark, contributes to who we are today.
Shadows are a natural byproduct of light. In this sense, they can symbolize growth and the interplay of challenges and successes in our lives. The darkness can motivate us to seek the light and strive for improvement. Acknowledging our shadows—our flaws, fears, and vulnerabilities—can foster empathy towards others. Shadows remind us that light and dark coexist. Embracing all parts of ourselves leads to a more balanced, authentic life. It encourages acceptance of our imperfections and the understanding that they contribute to our humanity.
The shadow we cast can also refer to the impact we have on others—our influence, values, and teachings. A positive legacy can inspire and guide future generations. By reframing our shadow in a positive light, we can appreciate it as a complex aspect of the human experience that reflects our journeys, relationships, and contributions.
The Essentials Over Superfluities
Please allow me to have a third post in a row inspired by Richard Baxter and The Reformed Pastor (1656). Baxter’s spending a great deal of time on necessities versus superfluities has caused me to pause and do a great deal of thinking. Baxter emphasized the importance of discerning between necessities and superfluities in various areas of life, particularly highlighting how this understanding can guide us as individuals and leaders in our pursuits and service of others. We should prioritize the activities that align with our values and goals over those that simply fill time but lack meaningful value.
Baxter also stressed committing to lifelong learning and self-improvement as essentials, instead of chasing after status or accolades that may not contribute to true personal development. Gregory Nazianzen said, “Necessaries are common and obvious; it is superfluities that we waste our time for, and labour for, and complain that we attain them not” (p. 47). Baxter gave us this quote to emphasize the idea that basic needs and necessities in life are typically clear and universally recognized, while it is often the pursuit of excess and non-essential things that consumes our time and energy.
Nazianzen suggested that people tend to focus too much on superfluous desires, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction when they don’t achieve them. The point he makes encourages individuals to prioritize what truly matters in life—the essentials—rather than getting caught up in the endless chase for more or superficial gains. It’s a reflection on the importance of wisdom and contentment in one’s pursuits.
These superfluities can be related to many areas of our lives and leadership; even our reading. Baxter even gave us an example in choosing the books we learn from when he said, “If you are to choose what authors to read yourselves, will you not rather take those that tell you what you know not, and that speak the most necessary truths in the clearest manner, though it be in barbarous or unhandsome language, than those that will most learnedly and elegantly tell you that which is false or vain, and ‘by a great effort say nothing’” (p. 58). We must commit to lifelong learning and self-improvement as essentials, instead of chasing after status or accolades that may not contribute to true personal development.
Necessity Versus Opinion
Yesterday, I blogged Attracted To Novelties, having been inspired by Baxter’s The Reformed Pastor (1656). Today I am writing having been inspired further by his understanding of necessity versus opinion. While Baxter was focused on church leadership, he was really showing his overall leadership expertise that we all can glean from. Richard Baxter emphasized the idea that necessity is confined, while opinions can be broad and varied. Leaders should prioritize essential values and principles in our decision-making processes rather than getting sidetracked by popular opinion or trends. This means discerning what truly matters to their organizations and stakeholders.
“Necessity is shut up within narrow limits; not so with opinion” ~ Ficinus
Baxter argued, “The great volumes and tedious controversies that so much trouble us and waste our time, are usually made up more of opinions than of necessary verities…” Think about how many times we get caught up in a bunch of talk about things that don’t really matter or opinions not based on any facts. Both Baxter and Seneca advocate for a thoughtful approach to life. We can foster cultures of discernment within our teams, encouraging critical thinking and open discussions about ideas and strategies. This can lead to better decision-making and a more engaged team.
Attracted To Novelties
One of the people who had an influence on C.S. Lewis was Richard Baxter. I am now reading Baxter’s The Reformed Pastor (1656). It is a fascinating work and I can see why Lewis read his work. Baxter quotes Seneca several times in the book. Seneca’s statement, “We are attracted to novelties rather than to great things,” emphasizes the human tendency to seek out new and shiny experiences, often at the expense of appreciating deeper, more meaningful aspects of life. He was highlighting how people can be easily distracted by superficial or fleeting interests instead of focusing on enduring values or profound truths.
In essence, Seneca suggests that while novelty can be enticing, it’s essential to recognize and prioritize what truly matters—wisdom, virtue, and personal growth—over transient pleasures or trends. This perspective encourages us to cultivate mindfulness and discernment in our pursuits, ensuring that we are not merely chasing after what’s new but also engaging with what has lasting significance. This discernment between chasing the new and staying true to what matters is a tricky balance. It is good to be reminded of the importance of this balance. If we are honest, we are enticed by novelty.
Using The Truth From The Myths To Unleash Creativity
I’ve been thinking about myths a lot lately in my studies of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. There is such power in myths and how those myths transform how we see the world. Myths often encapsulate profound insights about human nature, challenges, and triumphs, making them a rich resource for understanding how creativity manifests across different contexts. I am reading The Creative Brain: Myths and Truths by Anna Abraham right now and am impressed with how she has used myths to explore and understand human creativity and the creative process. By analyzing various cultural myths, she aimed to uncover universal themes and archetypes that resonate with the creative experience. Her approach was not to declare the myths about creativity as right or wrong, but to understand how the myths came about what we could learn from them. Tolkien would be proud!
There were so many examples of how myths serve as powerful tools for understanding how interdisciplinary approaches and personal narratives can inspire creativity and foster a deeper connection with one’s work and community. Leonardo da Vinci is an example that embodied the myth of lone genius, but he worked in a crowded workshop and collaborated with others across diverse fields of study. He embodied mastery across multiple disciplines. This myth serves as a reminder that embracing diverse interests can lead to innovative thinking and problem-solving. By drawing from various fields—such as art, science, technology, and philosophy, individuals can create unique solutions and drive progress in their respective domains.
Abraham’s work also affirmed the encourage of deliberate practice. I am a big believer in and always try to create opportunities for individuals to engage in deliberate practice that includes being curious within their fields. This means setting specific goals, seeking feedback, and reflecting on their learning process, which can enhance our creative skills over time.
Finally, recognizing the value of personal experiences in the creative process is so important. We need to encourage others and ourselves to draw on life stories, challenges, and successes when being curious, brainstorming, or problem-solving.
By leveraging the principles based on Anna Abraham’s research presented in this great book, organizations and individuals can cultivate an environment that nurtures and enhances creativity.
Breaking the Cliché: Strategies for Authentic Leadership Communication
Yesterday afternoon the television came on to a Season 10, Episode 5 of Chicago PD. This was the season that Jefferson White joined the cast as Chief O’Neal’s son, Sean O’Neal. In this episode Detective Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos) was having a discussion with Sean O’Neal who was at time helping them with a human trafficking case (he ended up being the human trafficker). Hailey said to Sean, “You talk in a lot of cliché’s.” Sean replied, “That’s because they’re usually true.” I’ve never been big on clichés and most of the time the people using them, overuse them, and don’t really live by them – definitely the point be made by Hailey’s comment in the show.
If using clichés at all, there needs to be a balance struck when it comes to using them. Here are a few strategies to be employed:
- Know Your Audience: Understanding the preferences and backgrounds of team members can help determine when a cliché might resonate positively or feel inauthentic or overused.
- Use Clichés Sparingly: Instead of relying on them frequently, a great communicator might use clichés in crucial moments for emphasis or connection, while otherwise opting for more original language.
- Mix with Originality: Pairing a cliché with fresh insights or personal anecdotes can give it new life and relevance, demonstrating that the person values creativity and authenticity.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: By fostering an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, leaders can gauge what phrases feel stale and what language inspires innovation. I’ve experienced original cliché’s that came about organically that became very meaningful and impactful.
- Adapt to Context: Recognizing the situation at hand—a motivational speech, a team meeting, or casual conversation—can help leaders decide when it’s appropriate to use familiar sayings or when to innovate. When in doubt, innovate.
- Model Authentic Communication: By prioritizing genuine expressions over clichés in their own communication, leaders can set an example for their teams, encouraging a culture of originality and thoughtfulness.
By being mindful of these aspects, and limiting the use of clichés, we can enhance our communication by be more authentic.
Leading Like St Nicholas
Merry Christmas! Yesterday I was reading a great piece in History Facts entitled Was St. Nicholas a Real Person. It was a great article and reminded me how important myths and these sub-creations were to what has become part of our culture. I realize I have broached a topic that there are many different thoughts and beliefs about, when it comes to myths and Santa Claus, but hear me out. First, we know there was a real St. Nicholas of Myra that was born around 280 CE and died around 343 CE (that date is disputed). What we do know is that he was a benevolent man and that much of the mystical wonder of Santa Claus was probably myth being created using the example of the real St. Nicholas.
J. R. R. Tolkien believed that myths and fairy tales were essential forms of art because they tapped into deep truths about human experience and the nature of existence. He viewed them as “sub-creations,” meaning that they allowed authors to create their own worlds and realities, reflecting the divine creativity inherent in the act of creation itself. For Tolkien, these narratives served not only as entertainment but also as a means of exploring profound themes like heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil. He believed that through these stories, we could better understand our own lives and moral choices, making them invaluable to the human experience.
These sub-creations allowed us to capture the traits of the real St. Nicholas, known for his generosity and kindness, particularly towards children and the less fortunate. Here are a few leadership lessons and themes we can learn St. Nicholas:
- Generosity and Kindness: St. Nicholas was known for his acts of giving without seeking recognition. He secretly provided dowries for poor girls to protect them from being sold into servitude, emphasizing the importance of helping those in need.
- Compassion for Children: He had a particular affinity for children, which is reflected in modern Christmas traditions that focus on gift-giving to kids. His legacy inspires the idea that the holiday season is a time for joy and generosity toward younger generations.
- Miracles and Charity: Stories of St. Nicholas performing miracles, such as reviving three children who had been killed, highlight his role as a protector. This theme of miraculous acts evolved into the magical aspects associated with Santa Claus today.
- Cultural Adaptation: The figure of St. Nicholas has been adapted and transformed through various cultures over centuries, leading to the creation of Santa Claus. His image became more jolly and festive, embodying the spirit of Christmas.
- Symbol of Hope: St. Nicholas represents hope and the spirit of giving, reminding us that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on others.
These lessons emphasize the values of love, compassion, and community that should be central to our everyday life and not just during the holiday season.
A Purrfect Blend: How Kittens Inspire Creativity and Collaboration in Leaders
I have blogged about kittens and cats many times, and now must add another. We have a new litter of kittens in the barn (see featured photo) that I am mesmerized by every morning and evening. You’ll notice in the photo, two of the kittens are exploring a broom and have made it into a toy. These kittens are the poster felines for curiosity and exploration. Kittens are naturally curious and often explore their environment without fear. We can learn a lot from them on how to embrace curiosity, encourage exploration, and remain open to new ideas, which can lead to innovation and growth. Combine that with play and observation, and we have summed up how kittens learn.
Kittens engage in play, which is vital for their development. For us, as leaders, incorporating playfulness and humor into the work environment can enhance team morale, foster creativity, and strengthen relationships among team members.
We can also learn from kittens the art of observation and importance of openness to learning. Kittens learn by observing their surroundings and each other. We can benefit from being keen observers, taking time to understand team dynamics and individual strengths, allowing us to make informed decisions.
I love watching these kittens play together. Play is a very important part of them learning important social skills and how to interact with others. Effective leaders should promote collaboration and teamwork, when possible incorporating play, helping individuals understand the value of working together towards common goals.
Finally, kittens are amazingly resilient. They can bounce back quickly from falls or mistakes during play. This resilience is essential for leaders; setbacks are inevitable, but maintaining a positive attitude and learning from experiences can lead to personal and professional growth.
Embracing The Incomprehensible
I am reading the great book by Noam Chomsky, What Kind of Creatures Are We? A Deep Exploration of Human Nature, Language, and Consciousness. In the book, Chomsky taught us that “…sometimes the greatest breakthroughs come from accepting what initially seems incomprehensible.” For example, when Sir Isaac Newton first discovered gravity and proposed the idea that invisible forces could pull objects toward each other in empty space, Newton himself thought the idea was ridiculous.
Additionally, Chomsky critiqued systems of power and governance, often advocating for clearer communication and understanding within social structures. Leaders can draw from these insights by encouraging open dialogue and critical thinking within their teams, which can lead to innovative solutions in the face of challenges.
The idea about breakthroughs arising from embracing the incomprehensible can be incredibly valuable for us, as leaders. Here are a few ways to integrate this concept into our leadership approach:
- Foster a Culture of Curiosity: Encourage our teams to ask questions and explore ideas that may initially seem confusing or out of reach. Create an environment where curiosity is celebrated, which can lead to innovative solutions. It’s all about becoming a learning organization.
- Embrace Uncertainty: Accept that not all challenges have clear or immediate answers. Acknowledging the complexity of certain situations can encourage open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving among team members.
- Encourage Diverse Perspectives: Seek input from team members with different backgrounds and experiences. This diversity can illuminate aspects of a problem that might not be obvious at first and could lead to creative breakthroughs.
- Promote Risk-Taking: Support calculated risks when exploring new ideas or strategies. Leaders should communicate that failure is a natural part of the learning process and can lead to significant discoveries.
- Continuous Learning: Commit to lifelong learning, both personally and for those we serve. Engaging with new theories, concepts, and practices—even those that seem daunting—can inspire growth and innovation.
- Reflect on Past Experiences: Encourage teams to reflect on previous instances where initial confusion or challenges led to valuable insights or successes. This practice reinforces the idea that navigating through complexity can yield positive outcomes.
Chomsky’s emphasis was on the idea that our understanding of the mind and language is not as clear-cut as physical laws; instead, it involves deeper cognitive processes that require exploration beyond simple models. This highlights his view on the necessity for a nuanced approach when studying complex systems like human language and behavior.By applying these strategies based on Chomsky’s perspective, we, as leaders, can adapt more effectively to challenges and inspire our teams to embrace complexity in the work.
Practice Makes Permanent
Last week during one of my Focused Leader Academy gatherings we did an activity around “mantras” as part of our core values series. We all have a mantra whether we know it or not. Those things we believe in and the values we always act on. Others we serve even develop mantras that they use when describing us. Mine, from when I was a principal, was “Make it so!” I always wanted everyone in the school to be empowered to think through what they needed so when they told me what they intended to do I could say, “Make it so!”
One of the participants at Silver Creek School Corporation last week, Grant Condon, was really engaged in this activity and it even created a productive struggle for him. He knew what he valued and what he believed he displayed as a teacher leader, but was having trouble putting it all together – he wanted to get it right. He asked if he could take the development of his mantra as homework. The teacher in me was loving it; he was asking for homework. I love it!
True to his word, Grant did the homework and sent his thoughts to me. His work on the mantra was outstanding and I asked his permission to share. 🎤 Get ready for the mic drop, because his response is a great lesson for us all. Here it is:
Good morning,
I have been thinking a lot about the mantra that I could not decide on during our last meeting on Wednesday. I wanted to focus on effort for it, which I am, but I think I was too set on having the word “effort” in it. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I already know of the perfect one, and it doesn’t have the word “effort” in it.
When I was on the 5th grade basketball team we had two coaches. One of them was my dad and the other was the dad of one of my best friends. The two of them taught us a lot of fundamentals and foundations of basketball, but they both used the same quote all of the time. In life, you hear a lot of people that say “practice makes perfect”, but they made a twist to that quote that I really like. They always told us that “practice makes permanent”.
I love that for my mantra because it goes right along with giving effort. If you practice by sitting there and doing nothing, then that’s what you are going to bring to the table during a game(or test). Developing habits is what we do in practice. I like to think of classwork and homework as the practice, and the tests/quizzes as the game. When students won’t ask questions, pay attention, or even attempt the work given to them, that is practicing poor effort that will become permanent habits.
I am sure that I have plenty more that I could say about this topic, but I will save that for another time!–
Grant Condon
Silver Creek Middle School
8th Grade Math
Byron's Babbles 
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