Letter 49

Hard heartedness, stubbornness and a desire to punish are not indicators of strength. They are symptoms of a deep weakness of soul.

Pushy, rude behavior is not a sign of the capacity to "get things done." Getting anything worth doing done is usually accomplished by convincing people to work together for a common goal.

Dishonesty is not a sign of cleverness. Deceiving people is not the same thing as leading them.

The fact our culture often equates leadership with intimidation, Machiavellian manipulation and dishonesty is why we so frequently get dishonest, cunning rather than clever bullies for leaders.