Resource Management Innovations

A Significant Day in Canadian Leadership;

My heart, my thoughts and my passions were all stirred this morning as I watched Mr. David Johnston being sworn in as Canada’s 28th Governor General. If we ever needed a ‘David Johnston’ … it is now.

His agenda as Governor General will coalesce his personal and professional passions.  In his first speech as Governor General, Johnston told a Senate chamber packed with dignitaries that he intends to champion families, education and volunteerism during his time at Rideau Hall. For our cousins outside of the country … Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Governor General, our official Head of State as Queen Elizabeth's official representative in Canada.



"I see my role as a bridge in bringing people of all backgrounds and ages together to create a smart and caring nation, a nation that will inspire not just Canadians but the entire world," he said. Johnston said he wants to help Canada become a country that gives all of its citizens a chance to thrive and grow.

I think that is a remarkable and responsible agenda for a key leadership position in our Canadian mosaic. Our Governors General have played an important role historically in bridging the cultural divide between the country and its elected officials. The position has traditionally been held by those who have distinguished themselves in either some aspect of public service or a military background. The country under our current Prime Ministers leadership has seen a significant, important and necessary cultural adjustment to reflect an image closer to our own. One perhaps we could readily and more easily identify with.



"David Johnston has been driven by the intense belief that service is not merely an option. It is a duty, an obligation of the heart that honor compels a man to accept,"  Prime Minister Stephen Harper said.

Consider that for a moment if you would:

• A duty,
• An obligation of the heart, that
• Honor compels a man to accept. (Gender neutral of course).

When was the last time you heard words such as duty, obligation of the heart, and honor … let alone from a public figure?  (I hesitate to use the term 'public servant' That quaint notion has long since lost its application). At 69 years of age … I suspect our Governor General will bring a measure of respect and responsibility to the Hill … as one tends to stand a bit taller and sit a bit straighter in the presence of such men.



A great day for Canada … and should duty, obligation of heart and honor compel us … for our friends around the world as well.

Be Heartened Canada;

Rick @ RMI
 

Posted By: Rick Kneeshaw 2010/10/01
Categories: Leadership and Management