When someone has to go
July 19, 2006
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I asked my friend Archie what the turning point was in the great success story of Canadian Tire. Archie had worked in the head office in the early days before he became a dealer in Barrie, Ontario.
"It was when Alfred Billes took over from his brother John." "Why?" I asked. "Sometimes to grow, someone has to go," he replied. Brutal? The law of the jungle? Not at all. Moses didn't move the Children of Israel into the Promised Land for good reason. Moses led them from captivity; Joshua settled them in their new land. Its takes different skills for different needs. David built Jerusalem; Solomon, the Temple. John built the foundation; Alfred knew how to make it grow. So when is it time to go? And how do I know? Is it time for me to get out so someone else can take this school to a new level? I've wondered. For eleven years, I've worked with a team in rebuilding and setting a new vision. Sometimes knowing when my time is over isn't that obvious. Yes, leadership is critical to the well-being of an enterprise, but let's not forget that each leader has their own limitabilities. Each brings to an era what is unique to their capacity. But then comes the moment when it's time to move on, letting another with their gifts and skills lead for the next era. Prayer-- Father who sees all, who I am and what I'm not, and who knows the needs for this enterprise, today and tomorrow, keep me from believing that only I can do what is needed. This work is yours. Your Spirit superintends. Help me see what this ministry can be to your kingdom beyond my era. And may I know joy, when another leads successfully. Amen. |
Sometimes to grow, someone has to go. |