In our approach at WEFA, we firmly believe that spirituality, ethics, and leadership are inextricably linked, forming the foundation for effective and vibrant emerging leaders. It's crucial to clarify that our emphasis on spirituality and cultural imagination in leadership education is not centered around any particular religion; instead, it revolves around nurturing the human spirit and understanding what it means to be truly human. Spirituality encompasses a wide spectrum of beliefs, practices, and approaches that extend beyond conventional religious boundaries. For our purposes, spirituality refers to the pursuit of a deeper connection with others who are deemed worthy of reverence and utmost devotion. In this definition, we emphasize that "the other" includes both individuality and community. "The other" is not an abstract concept but intimately connected to our own identity and growth.
According to philosopher Emmanuel Levinas, the face of "the other" is the cornerstone of ethics and the birth of civil society. Beyond our individual quests for meaning and authenticity, we are inherently interconnected with others. To be truly ethical and fully human, we must confront and engage with "the other." This encounter occurs not only in our daily lives but also in the unfamiliar, the different, and the sense of obligation and interdependence that it brings. As Levinas beautifully puts it, "The face of a [person] is the medium through which the invisible in him or her becomes visible and enters into commerce with us."
In our ethical leadership approach, spirituality assumes a pivotal role in shaping ethical leaders. Spirituality necessitates that leaders develop a profound sense of self-awareness that recognizes the interconnectedness of life and the importance of community. This "sense of community" extends beyond human boundaries to encompass the broader ecological realm, which is ultimately spiritual in nature. As my esteemed colleague, Robert M. Franklin, aptly points out, a person's spiritual identity underpins their fundamental values, moral commitments, and capacity for ethical reasoning. One's spiritual health reflects their ability to trust and care for others.
In summary, spirituality compels us to confront "the other," both on a personal and collective level. Through this encounter, we undergo transformation and are called to the noble task of building a more inclusive global community. Spirituality lies at the heart of the internal and social lives of ethical leaders, influencing the interplay between private and public leadership spheres. The question then arises: How can leaders harness spirituality as a resource to make ethical decisions that can lead to the transformation of powerful, entrenched systems?
For answers to this question, join us on the run. We are Walter Earl Fluker & Associates.
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