Leadership vs. Polls

A recent poll has suggested that only 29% of the American people approve of the job performance of President Bush.

Who cares? How does this matter at all? Why is this considered newsworthy?

If he were running again, it would certainly merit some attention. But he isn't. I suppose that inasmuch as the approval numbers affect the Congressional elections this November, politicos need to keep their eyes open.

But these silly polls don't really matter at all. Not to any real leader worth his or her salt.

Leadership isn't about pleasing your constituents...although that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Leadership involves following your moral compass even in the face of difficult times, when your "poll numbers" seem low. If your moral compass - your valued principles - points to what is true and right, then you'll be OK.

I'm not claiming that President Bush's moral compass is perfect, although I believe him to be a sincere Christian man who wants to do the right thing (but I often disagree with him as to what "the right thing" might be). But "Big News" in this nation is as corrupt as "Big Tobacco" or "Big Oil" or any other corporate principality. "Big News" has its own agenda and is driven by ratings, money, and, at times, radical political beliefs. If hyping essentially meaningless poll numbers will drive the agenda, they'll do it. Whether or not these "stories" matter is inconsequential.

I would urge President Bush, Prime Minister Blair (who is experiencing similar problems), and leaders around the world, whether Church or State, to follow a true moral compass and lead honestly. If your moral compass points to "true north", which is Jesus Christ, then the Holy Spirit will define and create effectiveness...not public opinion or corporate news.