There exist two categories of leaders: those who prioritize individuals and those who prioritize circumstances. Which category do you fall into? Leaders who prioritize circumstances may easily overlook the needs of individuals, driven by an underlying fear of adverse outcomes impacting them. Ultimately, those who favor circumstances above individuals exhibit a tendency to prioritize self-protection over the welfare of those they lead. In contrast, leaders who prioritize individuals, even amidst challenging situations, demonstrate the qualities of exemplary leadership. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Jesus taught, “If you got slapped your right cheek, turn the other cheek.” One of the actions that the Jewish Qumran community denied and forbade was “pointing with the left hand.” Violations of this rule brought sanctions from the community. To hit the right cheek means the opponent strikes with an unclean left or right backhand. This cheek slap is deliberately insulting and humiliating rather than merely a pain-inflicting action. Therefore, this teaching of Jesus, “turn the other cheek,” suggests not allowing oneself to be struck by the back of the hand and can signify not being helpless but being active in nonviolent resistance without seeking revenge or retaliation. Perhaps this teaching carries a frightening meaning. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”