Heart of the lion

Heart of the lion

by Dirk Depré - March 2, 2021

For years, I’ve thought that Rage Against the Machine did amazing artwork on their first full album. But after almost 30 years after that release, I got to know there is a story behind that artwork. I was triggered to find out after listening to the song ‘Cop Just out of Frame’ from the punkrock band Propaghandi. And so, I finally came to know the story behind that picture from June 11th, 1963 when Thich Quang Duc fought one last unselfish fight to free all Buddhists in Vietnam from suppression whilst immolating.

Not so long ago, my wife indulged me into the wonderful world of Narnia. Yes, it’s another Disney story about creatures and a Witch. And like it typically goes with witches, they want to become the boss. Luckily, a couple of smart kids, the wise Lion Aslan and his army of speaking animals go to battle and save the fantasy world of Narnia from whatever bad that White Witch could or would bring to that world. That Lion guy, Aslan, is quite something special. As leader, he is well recognized and everybody loves him because he’s loyal, honest, wise and courageous. He is also amazingly unselfish and courageous, up to the point that it will cost him his life, of course only for the the good cause. Within all drama of the movie, this act is one of a true leader, a sacrifice like no other. It made me think again of that story of Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc.

This real life story from 1963 or the one from Disney, inspires us to do the right thing. I have to admit that I care too much for my life and those around me to sacrifice my life. To put it into perspective, I relate to what Propagandhi is singing in their song: “Who the f#ck do I think I am fooling? As if I know the first thing of sacrifice or selflessness.” However, I do believe in guiding principles like honesty and doing the right thing …

Not so long ago, I had a conversation with a colleague and fellow Agilista. We were discussing the way cultural and organizational change always need some friction before it leads to traction. The discussion led us to the point where we were thinking about our role in creating that friction. And during our chat we established that in essence it comes down to living by the 5 scrum values and take it from there: do the right thing and say the things that need to be said. Fearless, open and with respect is the only way to discuss improvements and strive for better.

In every healthy Agile culture we should celebrate those who dare to take a stand if they dare to speak up and share their ideas. We should celebrate them when they strive to make things better for others (and hopefully also for themselves). But speaking up isn’t that easy, ‘au contraire’… it takes courage to do. And all leaders should encourage people to do: it’s free feedback with possibly a huge impact; because speaking up comes directly from the heart.

Within a business context, I value openness and I believe a true leader should lead by example. If there are things that need to be said, he or she will say it. If people are having trouble saying it, he or she helps to articulate it. And a true leader will listen to the things that are said, not punish people for having an honest opinion. Maybe it’s like  how I like to interpret Lebron James’ words:"Lets fight for change in stead of fighting change”. And speak up is just a great start already. If we just listen a bit better, we will grow cultures of Amazement and value those who care enough to give their input, even when it’s raw and uncut.