300 Global Ethics for Leadership
er. It provides the time to rediscover oneself and re-energize for the ser-
vice to which a leader is called. But it is a very challenging task, and not
an easy place to be because, as Nouwen warns, “we are so insecure and
fearful that we are easily distracted by whatever promises immediate
satisfaction. Solitude is not immediately satisfying, because in solitude
we meet our demons, our addictions, our feelings of lust and anger, and
our immense need for recognition and approval.”
But once a leader, through discipline and determination, overcomes
their challenge then solitude helps him or her to claim their centre and a
place to stand and become empowered for service.
24.5 Conclusion
While it is true that the contemporary socio- historical contexts pose
greater challenges for the formation of modesty in leadership, it is equal-
ly true that any period in human history will produce such leaders. What
counts is whether there are individuals in the society who are willing to
respond to the call for sacrificial and transformative leadership.
Individuals who embody the qualities, characteristics and virtues
identified in this article will in all probability become, in our times,
leaders who embrace modesty and humility.