KidLead - The Spirit of a Young Leader - SHHHH...

Young leaders are greatly influenced by the people in their lives. Sure it starts with parents, but it also includes teachers, coaches, church influences and adult friends of the family. Could we possibly be missing the boat regarding our influence in the kids' lives all around us?

From the book, KidLead by Alan E. Nelson... one of five areas that breaks the spirit of a young leader is: Poor Listening and Exclusion of Their Ideas.

Leaders typically have a lot of opinions. It's not that being opinionated makes you a leader. But leaders have opinions and ideas. When children convey their opinion openly and often, adults often squelch those expressions in the name of protecting the child from displaying characteristics such as arrogance, stubbornness or being too demanding. We might even call them out as not being team players. 

Children value having their voices heard. Who doesn't? When we trip them up on sharing their opinions and ideas, we often stymie the very leadership they were gifted by God to exhibit.

From the book, "Responding to the ideas of young leaders requires emotional intelligence. While we can't always provide ample time and attention for listening, when we consistently quiet our kids, exclude them from adult conversations, and dismiss their ideas as childish because they're young, we telegraph the idea that their natural gifting is not valued. By failing to reinforce their opinions, we communicate that their leadership is not valid. Literally, we're creating leader 'invalids.'"

OUCH! Have you been at all suspect in diminishing the leadership of a young person within your sphere of influence? At home? At church? At school? In sports? Next door? Suggestions on what you can do?

Head Coach Reggie Theus Fired From Sacramento Kings

Just about an hour ago, Reggie Theus, Sacramento Kings head coach was fired from the organization. I for one am a little disappointed. I thought he was a classy guy who had been dealt a horrible hand... including an unhealthy team.

The only thing that makes me think this could have been a good move is that it is reported Theus has alienated his teammates, Geoff Petrie, and the Moloofs. Probably not the best people to alienate. Then again, IS there anyone else to alienate?

Who/What WILL the Maloofs look to blame the rest of this year? Who will be the scapegoat? Listen, if you want to use the new younger guys, develop them, get them experience - then by golly you're going to lose some games. Let's not forget to put some of the responsibility of this crappy season on the players. Brad Miller, who has been one of my favorite players (as far as value to the team), has all but checked out. Smoking pot, yelling at refs, complaints, bad attitude on the court. Dude - he is the $11 million dollar man this year and should be leading by example. Some example Brad.

Sadly, I still remain a fan... I still believe. I don't need the grief but choose to hold on to hope!

Basketball Season - I'm an Assistant Coach

Max is playing basketball again and our first practice was this morning. I am actually the assistant coach this year - my first expedition into these realms.

It will be great to invest into these 3rd & 4th grade boys and see their lives changed because of the challenge, support, and inspiration that we will bring to them. It will be great to work with a Christian head coach and plant some seed among a few of these boys who have no real background in Christ.

Appreciate your prayers as we start practices today - and the games begin in January.