THE INSTINCT TO LEAD

THE INSTINCT TO LEAD

There is in human nature an instinct to lead. Not all have it, and those that do, have it to a greater or lesser degree. But it is a necessary quality in anyone responsible for the lives of others, and certainly in a Commander in Chief.

It is an instinct because it goes beyond rational analysis. Someone who has it in abundance knows when it is time to allow subordinates to make decisions and when they must take control. Someone with the instinct can differentiate between truly dangerous, and merely uncomfortable circumstances. They know what is in their control to influence and they act on that knowledge.

A general with this instinct to lead prepares for the enemy to the best of his ability. When facing a formidable enemy, he would not hesitate for a minute in removing from command any subordinate officer who was not up to the task at hand. This would be the rational decision in the best interest of the soldiers and in the best interest of completing the mission.

Decisiveness and the automatic response of moving towards the action are other hallmarks of this instinct. In dire circumstances, a leader who has this drive to lead, is a comfort to his people and a warning to all enemies.

By these criteria, George W. Bush has failed this nation egregiously.

These are dangerous and unstable times. It is not sufficient to wage wars of choice. We must shore up our physical and security infrastructure and prepare for obvious threats.

But this nation must also respond forcefully when the battle is brought to our shores, whether that is by terrorists or the terror of nature run wild. Hesitation in these circumstances means death. The body count and the number of missing coming from the Gulf Coast emphasize this reality.

And we miust not forget that in a time of great national emergency, the Commander in Chief of this land was far from the front lines.