To be a leader requires
knowing what to do, and why to do it. Enthusiasm, motivation, skill, and
knowing how to do things right is not enough; we have to know whether it is the
right thing to do. For that, moral leadership is required. Moral leadership has
two central aspects: understanding our true Self and serving
others. True leaders need knowledge that gives access to an inner moral compass
that guides our activities and gives direction to those who follow us. A clear
and simple directive has come to us through the ages:”Know Thyself.”
Leadership is about who we
are and what we do. Along with learning to act as a leader, we must possess the
characteristics, behaviour, and habits of mind and
heart of true leaders. True leaders have the courage to confront the meaning of
existence. They have the courage to live in a manner that offer meaning to
others. Such leadership transcends organisational leadership and also moral
leadership. It is life
leadership. Such leaders become connected to the limitless spiritual
power within and radiate unmatched strength of character and will. Yet they are
the most humble and compassionate of leaders. True leadership is not acting a
certain way; it is a reflection of who we are within.
Many focus on the routines of
life, such as waking up, getting dressed, eating, driving, earning a living,
coming home, and repeating the cycle the following day. We go through life
growing up, having a job, raising a family, retiring, and then passing away. We
wonder if that is all there is to human existence. Those who raise this
question cannot rest until they find answers. They conclude that there is a
higher power within that guides us. That inner spiritual power is the source of
morals, virtues, power, and life, whatever name we call it – God,
consciousness, soul – that power within, enlivening each of us.
Once we contact the eternal
spiritual power, we connect with the source of the qualities of true leaders.
We automatically and effortlessly inculcate the virtues and characteristics
associated with great leaders.
The second aspect of
leadership is service. Service before self is the key to a full and rewarding
life. A leader must be a servant first. It is by serving others that we earn
the right to lead them. We may act as leaders, but we must be servants to lead
meaningfully. How is it possible?
Those who are spiritually
aware see the same power enlivening all creation. A life of service is based on
deep spiritual and moral principles that are understood and internalised when
we connect with the Truth within.
Intellectually understanding service does not provide the conviction we need
when we are tested, by people and circumstances.
Becoming a true leader is
about becoming a true human being. Leadership is a product of deep, ongoing
self-analysis. It is about choosing a life committed to spiritual growth and
service. If we tap into spiritual sources within, we will become leaders whose
lives will inspire others to follow and who will be a blessing to those we
meet.
We need dedication and
perseverance to achieve anything. For those who turn to the spiritual path,
moral leadership will come naturally. We do not need to act or pose. Our moral
leadership and spiritual strength will flow from our words and actions and will
reach the hearts of others as naturally and inevitably as a stream flows
towards its source.
 
The poem was first recited by Narendra Modi at the Vijay Shankhnad Yuva Sangam in Ahmedabad.
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