Tolkien As A Learner
“Those who had asked for more information about hobbits eventually got it, but they had to wait a long time; for the composition of The Lord of the Rings went on at intervals during the years 1936 to 1949, a period in which I had many duties that I did not neglect, and many other interests as a learner and teacher that often absorbed me.” I love this statement by J. R. R. Tolkien in the foreword of the second edition of The Fellowship of the Ring. Tolkien was indicating that those interested in hobbits, and by extension, his broader Middle-earth universe, had to be patient as he took time to develop these stories. This suggests he valued meticulous storytelling and was willing to take the necessary time to craft his world thoroughly.
I am inspired by Tolkien calling himself a learner. Specifically saying, “…interests as a learner” suggests that Tolkien viewed himself as someone who was continually growing and developing, both as a writer and as a person. As a person who considers himself a long-life learner and advocates continuous learning for all, it really resonated with me that he would include that statement in the foreword.
Tolkien’s statement reflects his humility, openness to new ideas, and a recognition that mastery is an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. This attitude indicates that Tolkien valued learning from his experiences, feedback, and the process of creating his stories, which in turn demonstrates his dedication to improvement and a humble respect for the craft of writing.
Applicability: Tolkien’s View on the Organic Meaning of Stories
Studying J. R. R. Tolkien has been very interesting and has caused me to do a great deal of deep thought and research. Tolkien repeatedly said he did not like or appreciate allegory. This really caused me to pause because I always saw his connection to Christianity as allegorical. But as I studied more about it I learned Tolkien was drawing on his own experiences and making his stories applicable, not allegorical. In the foreword of the second edition of The Fellowship of the Ring, Tolkien made it crystal clear for me, saying, “I much prefer history, true or feigned, with its varied applicability to the thought and experience of readers. I think that many confuse ‘applicability’ with ‘allegory’; but the one resides in the freedom of the reader, and the other in the purposed domination of the author.” He was right. I had been confused.
Tolkien’s comment in the foreword highlights a key distinction between ‘applicability’ and ‘allegory’ in literature. When he says that ‘applicability’ resides in the freedom of the reader, he means that readers can take different themes, lessons, or messages from his work and interpret them in ways that resonate personally with their own experiences. If you’ve read any of Tolkien’s work, you know it does just that. This allows for a diverse range of understandings and connections.
Conversely, ‘allegory’ involves the author’s deliberate intention to embed specific meanings or messages that serve a particular purpose or point of view. When an author uses allegory, they are guiding the reader toward a predetermined interpretation, which can sometimes feel like a form of control or “domination” over how the story is understood.
Tolkien went on to say, “An author cannot of course remain wholly unaffected by his experience, but the ways in which a story-germ uses the soil of experience are extremely complex, and attempts to define the process are at best guesses from evidence that is inadequate and ambiguous.” Our experiences matter and are part of our stories.
Tolkien emphasized that his stories are open to interpretation. He wanted us to realize that the meanings are applicable in various ways to different readers. He did not want readers of his works to be constrained by rigid allegorical constrictions that attempt to dictate how they must be understood. This perspective respects our imaginative freedom and the organic way stories can hold different meanings for different people.
Creating A Clear Perception Of Fairness
I was reading about some December 2025 Gartner survey research of 2,947 employees and managers in a Harvard Business Review article (“The Case for Performance-First Management”) yesterday. To give some context here, the article was using recent data to move us from the post-pandemic people-first management we have been focused on to a more balanced approach. This balance involves still being human centered, but also having performance and productivity as part of the leadership scheme. As the article said, “Flexibility and care remain important—but they become tools in service of outcomes, not the outcomes themselves.” I loved this as it really brings to life being human centered.
One of the points made was that leaders need to “create a clear perception of fairness.” At first, the word perception threw me off. I was thinking more in terms of “perception” not always being right, but always being reality. In the context used in the article, however, it really was a promising practice for leaders to create a clear perception. “Create” was the operative word there. As a person who believes in leading with justice as an attribute, we need to create an environment that is visibly fair.
We create that clear perception of fairness by practicing transparency, consistent decision-making, and open communication. This involves explaining the reasons behind our choices, applying policies evenly across all team members, and actively listening to concerns. Recognizing and addressing biases, involving team members in decision processes when appropriate, and providing constructive feedback also help foster trust. When we demonstrate integrity and prioritize equitable treatment, it reinforces a sense of fairness and encourages a positive, collaborative environment. Doing so brings the performance of our teams and organizations to the forefront.
The Impact of the Two-Way Street of Influence
One of the sessions I did while facilitating alongside the incredible National FFA team at this past week’s National FFA Teacher Ambassador training was titled “Who Do I Influence”. In that session we discussed that influence starts with relationships and is about impact not status. Our legacy is the sum total of the influence we’ve had on others. That legacy is important. It is what is left behind after conversations, after we hit send on texts and emails, how we show up, being available, and how we include and help others belong.
We are influencing and being influenced every moment of every day.
Every year when I cover this topic with ambassadors I also remember how important those who have influenced me are. Great leaders not only embrace the opportunity to influence, but also accept responsibility for who is influencing them. I get the incredible opportunity to be influenced by a great leader with National FFA who has been influencing me for over twenty years.
Ambra Tennery, now director of educational programs in the program and events division of the National FFA Organization, and I were together for her entire teaching career. I had the opportunity to see her in action when she was student teaching and from that moment on I was in recruitment (stalking) mode. I wanted to teach with her! A close friendship and professional bond was forged that still exists today; a bond over two decades old. This relationship taught me that influence is a two-way street. Ambra came into our agriculture program with fresh ideas, incredible teaching skills and strategies, and a natural talent for forming relationships with students. I was learning from her every day!
This two-way street of influence is about growth and learning for everyone involved. Ambra and I were open to influence, we gained new insights from each other and challenged each other’s assumptions, which helped us both expand our horizons. Today, we continue to stay receptive to each other’s feedback, adapting our approaches if needed. Ambra is a great leader and I am so fortunate to have a front seat to continue to witness and experience that leadership. This bidirectional process has cultivated a deep sense of partnership, empowering each of us to evolve and grow. Ultimately, a healthy exchange of influence nurtures collaboration, innovation, and even deeper connections.
Influence really is a two-way street. Let’s make sure we are impacting others like those who have impacted us along the way. Also, let’s make sure we don’t miss the opportunity to be influenced by someone else. We need to travel the two-way street of influence.
Stretching The Moments
This week I did a week-long facilitation and the “vibe” was incredible. Usually, I am not a night owl in the hotel bar, because I want to be fresh and recharged for each day of being “on”. But as I said, the vibe was incredible. I found myself having a tough time making it through the lobby and bar without stopping every three feet to talk to another group of participants. It was so great to be connecting and building relationships. These are important moments at an event.
As time went on, people kept commenting, “I thought you were going to bed two hours ago.” I thought I was too, but there was so much warmth and enjoyment being shared. It signified that the individuals were engaging and memorable enough to make time seem like it flew by. Instead of feeling pressured to leave quickly, I allowed myself to savor the moment, deepen relationships, and create lasting memories. This lingering atmosphere was fostering stronger connections, making the event more meaningful for everyone involved.
Moreover, such moments highlight a sense of comfort and genuine camaraderie. We all valued each other’s presence and the fun or meaningful conversations we shared. It transformed the experience from a simple social obligation into an enjoyable ritual, where the focus is on connection rather than deadlines. In a way, stretching out these moments showcases that quality time is worth cherishing, even if it means delaying bedtime for a little while longer.
Humility and Integrity: The Path to True Strength and Lasting Honor
A couple of passages that really jumped out at me while reading Beowulf were, “No life is immune to danger: Hrothgar’s experience proves it” and “Beowulf is exhorted to be mindful of the fragility of life ‘O flower of warriors, beware of that trap. Choose, dear Beowulf, the better part, eternal rewards. Do not give way to pride.’” The first quote suggests that no matter how powerful, respected, or established someone is, everyone is vulnerable to threats and peril. In the context of Beowulf, Hrothgar’s story serves as an example showing that even a wise and successful king faces dangers, such as the monster Grendel. It underscores a universal truth that danger is an inherent part of life, and no one is completely safe from harm, regardless of their status or strength.
The second quote is advice to Beowulf to be mindful of life’s fragility and to choose eternal rewards over pride. This highlights an important perspective on danger. It reminds us that beneath the physical threats like the monster, Grendel, there’s a spiritual and moral dimension to danger. True bravery involves humility and awareness of one’s mortality, emphasizing that reckless pride can lead to downfall. Recognizing life’s fragility encourages us to act wisely and ethically, understanding that danger is not just external but also internal. Our choices and attitudes shape how we face risks. This perspective underscores that real strength lies in humility and moral integrity, which can help one navigate dangers more sensibly and ultimately attain lasting honor.
Beowulf: No Ordinary Leader
I am so glad I am reading Beowulf. It is an incredibly inspiring story. Yesterday I was inspired by Beowulf to write, Unveiling Power: Exploring the Themes and Legacy of Beowulf. I am at the point in the poem now where Beowulf has killed Grendel. This made me think of what J. R. R. Tolkien said to friend W. H. Auden about his love for Beowulf:
“The overthrow of Grendel makes a good wonder-tale, because he is too strong and dangerous for any ordinary man to defeat, but it is a victory in which all men can rejoice because he was a monster, hostile to all men and to all humane fellowship and joy.”
I believe Tolkien called Beowulf a wonder-tale because he believed it embodied the qualities of a classic myth or legend that inspired awe and awe-inspiring storytelling. The term “wonder-tale” emphasized its timelessness, the presence of extraordinary deeds, heroic characters, and elements of the supernatural. Tolkien saw it as a foundational story that captured the imagination, celebrated heroism, and conveyed profound themes about good versus evil, honor, and mortality. By referring to it as a wonder-tale, Tolkien acknowledged its status as a remarkable and enduring piece of literary and cultural heritage that continues to inspire wonder and admiration to this day.
Reading Beowulf offers valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and the importance of reputation. It teaches us that true heroism involves facing our fears and protecting those we care about, even in the face of great danger. Additionally, the poem highlights the significance of honor and integrity, reminding us that our actions define our legacy. Ultimately, Beowulf inspires us to live bravely and uphold noble values, leaving a lasting impact on both ourselves and society.
Unveiling Power: Exploring the Themes and Legacy of Beowulf
I am reading Beowulf right now. This epic Old English poem had a profound effect on J. R. R. Tolkien and his writing. Tolkien translated the poem as well. Beowulf is the story of the legendary hero Beowulf, who comes to the aid of the Danish king Hrothgar to defeat the monstrous Grendel. Demonstrating immense strength and bravery, Beowulf ultimately kills Grendel, his mother, and later faces a formidable dragon in his old age. The poem explores themes of heroism, loyalty, honor, and the transient nature of life, highlighting the values of courage and reputation that define the culture of the warriors. Through its rich language and heroic deeds, Beowulf remains one of the most significant and enduring works of early medieval literature.
As I was reading yesterday, a line jumped out at me. It was said of Beowulf, “And a young prince must be prudent like that, giving freely while his father lives so that afterwards in age when fighting starts steadfast companions will stand by him and hold the line. Behaviour that’s admired is the path to power among people everywhere.” I believe The author of Beowulf, who is unknown, was emphasizing the importance of wise and generous leadership. By giving freely and demonstrating prudence while one’s father is alive, the young prince was building trust and loyalty among his followers. This behavior fostered strong relationships and goodwill, which would prove to be crucial when future conflicts or challenges arise. We are reminded that acting honorably and generously in the present helps secure lasting support and respect, ultimately paving the way for power and stability in the times to come.
The sentence, “Behavior that’s admired is the path to power among people everywhere” really caused reflection. It reinforces that our actions do matter and highlights the idea that individuals who exhibit qualities valued by their community, like integrity, bravery, kindness, and fairness, tend to gain respect and admiration. This respect translates into influence, leadership, and ultimately, power.
In the context of Beowulf, this concept underscores how the heroic virtues of courage, loyalty, and humility earn the admiration of our organizations and communities. This respect, when paired with relationships, will solidify a leader’s authority. When a person consistently acts honorably and demonstrates admirable qualities, others are more likely to follow them willingly, trusting in their strength and moral character.
Genuine influence isn’t rooted solely in fear or coercion but in earning the trust and admiration of others. Over time, such behavior builds a reputation that naturally attracts followers, helping individuals attain and maintain leadership roles without resorting to force or manipulation.
Scattering Selfishness: A Path Toward Compassion and Self-Discovery
I love George MacDonald’s June 24th entry in Diary of an Old Soul. He broached the topic of love, not in a romantic sense, but in a loving our neighbor context. MacDonald, in his Unspoken Sermons, Series I, II, and III, also connected love to justice by asking the question, “Were there no love in us, what sense of justice could we have?” Here is what he wrote on this day in 1880:
“Love in the prime not yet I understand –
Scarce know the love that loveth at first first hand:
Help me my selfishness to scatter and scout;
Blow on me till my love loves burning;
Then the great love will burn the mean self out,
And I, in glorious simplicity,
Living by love, shall love unspeakably.”
The line “Help me my selfishness to scatter and scout” really jumped out at me as a poetic plea for personal growth and self-awareness. MacDonald was asking for assistance in overcoming his own selfish tendencies. Those same selfish tendencies we all have. He was hopeful that these selfish impulses could be dispersed (“scattered”) and examined (“scouted”) so that he could better understand himself and perhaps become more generous, compassionate, and spiritually aware. This reflected MacDonald’s desire for humility and a recognition that self-improvement often involves actively confronting and exploring one’s own flaws.
Leadership Lessons From My Dad
Yesterday, on Father’s Day, I read an article about the beginnings of Father’s Day as a national holiday. Did you know President Richard Nixon signed the legislation making it a permanent national observance in 1972? I was nine years old in 1972 and at that age where my dad was invincible. As I read I began to reflect on my father and why I am so thankful for the great relationship I had with my dad. My dad was one of those who if you brought home straight A’s and one “A-” he wanted to know why the “A-”and how were we going to make it an “A”.
As tough as that sounds, I needed that tough love and I thrived on it. My dad taught me not to settle. He also taught me about continuous improvement. Dad was teaching me about going from good to great long before Jim Collins made it a best selling book title in 2001. With this toughness, dad also coached me on being a person of integrity and doing what I say I am going to do.
My dad was also a perfectionist. I learned from watching him that perfection does get in the way of progress or completion. Luckily I did not get that part of dad’s DNA. It would take him so long to get something done because he had to make it perfect. My watching him, learning from him, and arguing about getting things done helped me become being comfortable with the messiness of innovation.
As I reflected on this it reminded me of J. R. R. Tolkien being a perfectionist. When getting feedback from the Inklings, he would many times start a manuscript completely over. This made his writing extremely slow and he left many unfinished works when he died. Now, make no mistake, Tolkien was extremely successful and significant. But, just like with my dad, perfection got in the way of progress and completion. I love Tolkien’s take on this in Leaf By Niggle. I wrote about this in Using Tolkien’s Leaf By Niggle As A Guide To Living With Significance.
Our dads are unique human beings. Our dads are not perfect. My dad was not perfect. However, my dad served as an incredible role model that I look to every day. He modeled for me how to be a great dad and I hope my son has learned from my positive qualities and imperfections like I did from my dad.
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