Sometimes the Best Light Comes From a Burning Bridge

I rarely like to begin a musing with a disclaimer attached to it but here goes. Please forgive me if I sound a little fired up today but I am, it is only because I care.

I received a heartbreaking e-mail from an RCMP member yesterday whose battle to pursue what is right and good for the benefit of the organization is taking its toll on his emotional health. Because he cares and desires to make a difference in fighting for an ideal and principle that is higher than his own personal ambitions, he has faced down venemous opposition and attempted 'intimidation by rank,' from some of his management.

I suspect that many of his detractors have never even had a coffee with him and got to know the depth of his character and conviction. He is seen as an agitator - only because he dares to challenge poor leadership. What they don't see is his anguish and frustration as a committed family man, husband, father, and passionate member of what is supposed to be a courageous and honorable profession.

High ideals of courage and character and integrity are always going to be met with opposition which is often underhanded and cowardly in its execution.

One of my new favorite authors, Gus Lee has written a book entitled Courage: The Backbone of Leadership. It is a dangerous book and quite possibly a threat to institutions weaned on a command and control mindset. Lee is a much sought after corporate consultant and a recognized expert in leadership and ethics.

Lee describes living a life of courage as being on a river bank. On the safe side of the bank is a good person, he tells the truth, he doesn't cheat or steal or lie and will follow a prescribed ethical code by his institution. On the other, more dangerous side of the river, known as the river of fear, is the life of the courageous person. They will take risks for principles and other people, they act with integrity and discern right from wrong, they stop and expose wrongdoing and challenge injustices. Their character is one of sustained integrity and courage.

To get to the life of courage and conviction and integrity, the good person needs to make a commitment to cross the river of fear to become a great person. Injustices, intimidations, abuses of power, and fearmongering have got to be challenged and stopped by someone. They cannot be stopped until the good person chooses to cross the river.

I suspect that my friend has entered the river, desires more than anything to cross it, is in the middle and wondering if he should go back to the safety of goodness and honesty, or whether he should plunge ahead onto the bank of courage and integrity and character. I am hopeful that he will make the latter choice.

I am reminded by a line in a song by Don Henley: " sometimes the best light comes from a burning bridge."

To my friend who is struggling, and to so many other good people out there who desire to cross the river, I encourage you to do it and never look back. Burn the bridge of security and safety, status quo, indifference, apathy and loyalty to institutional wrongdoing and negative pride. You will never regret standing up and fighting for something that is larger than yourself. You will be able to look into the mirror with a clear conscience and a humble spirit and know that in your own small way that you have made a difference for the good.