Page 12 - The heart of Leadership

secretarial positions. I then began a career in sales, eventually
becoming the director of marketing and sales for international
companies. Then, I became an entrepreneur and owned two
companies.

Leadership is often something that has been within us since our
early childhood, pushing and inspiring us to move forward in that
direction. Leadership is the very source of life that desires to express
itself through us. If we allow it to take its place and express itself
through the path of our heart, it will attract to us all the opportunities,
occasions, people, and situations that will allow us to play this very
important role in our lives and in the world.

Here are some examples of leaders and influential individuals,
not necessarily in leadership positions, but who have had an
extraordinary journey that has impacted, in some way, people,
organizations, communities, and families. All have demonstrated
that leadership is part of their life mission and purpose:

* Barack Obama

He represents the American Dream writ large. Not only was he
raised by a single mother, but he also became the leader of the free
world. He did so as a minority. He was the first African American
president. Obama instantly inspired millions of people around the
world. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. There is no denying
that he is an inspiring, influential individual and a man of heart.

Oprah Winfrey

Unlike many celebrities, the waves she makes tend to always be
in support of humanitarian causes. Coming from a very humble
background, she uses her story to prove that anyone can achieve
their goals and dreams. As a Black woman, she is a clear inspiration
to all African Americans and women, and her influence truly
extends to all races, genders, and age groups.

8