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Dreams, Fears, and Leadership: Turning Nightmares into Strength

9/25/94

"Crying! I woke up this morning at about 6:00 a.m. I had such a horrible dream that I woke up crying. I dreamed my brother was getting beat up by some guys, and the next scene was his death. I found myself hovering over his body, neatly laying in a casket. I cried so much in my dream that I woke up still crying. It seemed so real that I remained frightened once I was awake; I still couldn't help but cry. I couldn't go back to sleep. I had to call my mother to be reassured that my brother was okay. I called my mother, and she told me that my brother was alive but could be doing something much better. She told me that he had lost a considerable amount of weight. I was glad to know that he was okay, but I was still sad and scared because my brother didn't seem strong enough to overcome his problem. I know it must be hard, and he has tried, and I believe I've put in enough prayers for it to work, but it hasn't. I really wish he would get out of that neighborhood and start over."



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This experience got me thinking about leadership. Just like in my dream, there are times in our professional lives when we feel utterly helpless and overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility and concern for those we care about. As leaders, we often encounter situations where the well-being of our team members is at stake, and we feel a profound sense of duty to support them, even when it seems like we’ve done all we can.


In urban schools, we work with students and staff who face tremendous challenges daily. Our role as leaders is to be the anchor in these storms, providing guidance, support, and a sense of hope. When someone on our team is struggling, it’s our responsibility to reach out, offer assistance, and create an environment where they can thrive. It’s not always easy, and sometimes, despite our best efforts and fervent prayers, the outcomes aren’t what we hoped for.


The key is not to lose hope. Just as I wish my brother would leave that neighborhood and start fresh, we must encourage our students and colleagues to seek new paths and opportunities for growth. We must believe in their potential to overcome adversity, even when it seems insurmountable. Our belief in them can be the catalyst for change.


It’s okay to feel deeply and to be moved by the struggles of those we lead. Our empathy and compassion are powerful tools in fostering a supportive and resilient community. Keep reaching out, keep believing, and most importantly, keep going.



 
 
 

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