In an era where leadership is often defined by titles and accolades, the wisdom found in this book reminds us that true leadership begins within. With each chapter, the author guides readers on a journey that deepens not only their understanding of the world but also of themselves. This journey resonates with those looking to cultivate inner resilience, build meaningful relationships,

and lead with integrity—qualities essential to today’s leaders.

As someone who has dedicated my career to advancing leadership principles, both in academic settings and executive roles, I’ve had the privilege of shaping leadership programs and working closely with organizations to elevate their strategic direction. Through these experiences, I have witnessed the transformative power of self-awareness and empathy in building authentic leadership. This book deeply engages with these essential aspects, encouraging readers to explore their emotions, challenge their beliefs, and turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. The insights shared here offer more than inspiration; they provide a framework for crafting a purpose-driven life, grounded in values that reach beyond any single accomplishment.

Drawing on my extensive background consulting across diverse industries, I see the author’s approach as uniquely bridging the personal and the universal. Leadership, as this book illustrates, is not confined to boardrooms or executive titles; rather, it is woven into every interaction, relationship, and decision. This work celebrates a form of leadership that champions service, empathy, and authenticity, illuminating a path that fosters both personal growth and collective resilience.

Beyond serving as a guide, this book challenges readers to build their legacies on empathy, vision, and courage. It is a profound call to those who aspire to leave a lasting, positive mark on the world.

As you turn these pages, may you find not only answers but also the courage to embody the principles that will guide you on a path to becoming both a stronger leader and a more grounded individual. This is more than just a book; it’s a journey of transformation that invites you to challenge, reflect, and grow. I am honored to introduce you to it.

Marianne Sullivan, PhD

Executive Leadership Consultant

BOOK 1 INTRODUCTION

I remember a college student asking me, “Is there such a thing as a single right path?” Many of my students nearing graduation looked at it as something akin to walking off the gangplank. Though it doesn’t take a graduation to feel like that, a word of encouragement is called for. After decades as a teacher and pastor, my answer is, “Yes, there is. And it looks different for every single one of us. It is the path before us.

While God’s Truth is remarkably uncomplicated, our acceptance of it can be, let’s call it, off-putting. We easily step off the path when we try to complicate things by confusing our thoughts with God’s. In every case when my opinions and my decided course of action were dead wrong, God put His arm around my shoulder and gently steered me in His direction.

I offer evidence through my and other’s stories that jumping into the spiritual pool (gang plank or not) will not drown us, it will empower us. What the path before us looks like and how we respond to it can appear to be individual choice, but there is much more to it. I’ve chosen these stories because I think real life lessons stay with us. At least these have stayed with me.

BOOK 2 INTRODUCTION

If you are looking for something that feels lost to you, finding happens in the struggle and grit buried deep into life, like a diamond in rock. I would surmise that what we are looking for is hidden deep within our soul, the place that remains silent and unfelt until it is awakened.

When that happens, it feels very much like coming home – not to a building, but to ourselves.

The process of awakening our soul, I’ve found, is generally done through the revealing of God’s Truth. Seems simple enough. How do we know what God’s Truth is? Oh, that’s where it gets good. Experiencing God and the awakening of our soul are very much linked to this

earth experience, for now. If we want to find more than rocks and grit in this life, I think it best to go inward, and do the work necessary to uncover the soul.

God gives us not only the lessons necessary to fully embrace who we are, but He gives us everything we will need to do that. And it is community, my friend, that will help us to live with authenticity. For all practical purposes community reflects its own reality.

These stories are told by the people I’ve known on the path home.