Disciple Leadership

This week was full of learning and applying the new concepts and ideas as I apply them into my Hero’s journey to entrepreneurship. I appreciated reading and pondering about Elder David A. Bednar’s article titled “A Disciple Preparation Center”.  Elder Bednar provided great insights on the similarities between a missionary training center (MTC) and Brigham Young University – Idaho as a Discipline Preparation Center (DPC). He highlighted a few characteristics such as: both centers are isolated geographic area, both missionaries and BYU-Idaho students are enrolled for a relatively short period of time, the learning and teaching are focused and intense, distinctive requirements for demeanor, dress, and both centers are located near temples. The fact that I am part of this sacred and set apart place has an immense value to me, as well as having access to unparallel spiritual resources that can assist me and those who attend BYU-I in developing and deepening our devotion as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Another great reading covered this week that resonated with me was through President Kim B. Clark’s article titled “Leadership with a Small L”. President Clark describes small “L” leadership and small “D” discipleship at BYU-Idaho as how the Savior exemplifies this type of leadership and how it is needed in our homes, families, communities and business throughout the world.  President Clark taught that the call to be a disciple-leader is a call to minister and to serve. It is a leadership that builds and lifts through kindness and love and unselfish devotion to the Lord and His work. As part of this small “L” leadership and discipleship, he outlines three principles: Principle #1: Lead by Example, Principle #2: Lead with Vision; Principle #3:  Lead with Love. After reading this article, I pray that I may always be disciple of the Savior and lead by example with vision and love.

In addition, I learned great business strategies on the article titled “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Mr. Collins outlined three very simple success and strategies to commit to a standard of excellence founded around these statements: Disciplined People – getting the right people in business and then keeping them focused on excellence. Disciplined Thought – being honest about facts and avoiding temptation. Disciplined Action – realizing what is important to achieve and what is not. 

Finally, a great lesson was taught through the article titled “A Message to Garcia – Will you deliver it? Lieutenant, Andre Summers Rowan, was sent to Cuba alone with an important mission -- to carry a message to Garcia – as Garcia was the leader of the Cuban militia. The president of the U.S. at the time, William McKinley needed Garcia’s help for the war effort. Rowan was the individual suggested to deliver the important message. Rowan’s acceptance of his task was without question, by carrying out his duty and desire to carry out the mission without delays. These are traits that all men and women should follow and strive for. Rowan’s trustworthy, and his responsibilities of hard work and commitment, make young people into responsible members of society.