The power to lead is the power to mislead, and the power to mislead is the power to destroy. – Thomas S. Monson
Human society is beautiful thing. Leaving aside all the bad news and negativity and things that disappoint us regarding how we lead our collective lives, it truly is a wonder to behold and be a part of.
All our greatest achievements, bar none, have been possible through one single thing, cooperation, and at the basis of this stands language, first spoken and more importantly written.
But to be able to bare the fruits of past achievements a consensus was always necessary to pick which ideas need to be transmitted and which get forgotten. And that has only ever been possible through leadership and authority.
Human nature has an innate capacity to respect and follow authority and authority figures. I know how many people dislike this concept and push an agenda of “dance to the theme of your own song”. Yes, it is great to have independence, independent thoughts and independent decisions, but a respect for authority is indispensable if you want to be able to cohabitate on this green earth.
Now blind respect is bad, and dangerous indeed, which is also why people who have a position of authority have the power to lead and also to mislead others. And those who can mislead others have the power to destroy others and ultimately themselves.
So if you ever find yourself in a position of authority over others, take care what actions you take because your behavior holds power – to varying degrees – over the lives and livelihoods of others. So be mindful of your actions, look to do go by others and by yourself and you’ll be fine.