So she invited me to join her project. Not surprisingly, I ignored her request. Then she said:
Please consider helping me prevent an echo chamber
Those words changed me. She intentionally opted to include a person in her group who disagrees with the group's fundamental purpose. She knows I will argue with her. She knows that I won't complicitly support her decisions. She knows that managing her project will be more difficult with me around.
She also knows that I will share my opinion and not remain silent. She knows that I will speak for those who dissent, but may lack the confidence to say so. She knows that I will represent those who opted not to join the project because they disagree with it.
This is true leadership - doing what's right by every stakeholder. Truly listening and seeking to understand the viewpoints of others. Making decisions based not on what's easy, but on what's best.
It seems so rare in today's world. So many people are only out for themselves, or they believe that everyone else agrees with them without obtaining confirmation. I've seen it a lot in the judge program: projects that are basically 1 man shows, mentors and mentees using one another for their own gain, leaders ignoring those under them while claiming to care. It's frustrating and off-putting.
So while I still hate everything about it, I joined and I'll serve as an active member adding my input and voicing my opinions. I'll share the unpopular opinions, ask the hard questions, and refuse to 'let it go.' Sometimes respectful disagreement makes us both better and I'm proud that you asked me the be one of the irons as we sharpen one another.
