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Analysis Of ' I Have A Dream '

Decent Essays

When we hear the word “leader,” faded newspaper clippings drift into our minds. We visualize Martin Luther King Jr. on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial giving his timeless "I have a dream” speech. Thousands of people holding onto every word, and listening, eager for the next one. Abraham Lincoln also comes to mind. His long beard and top hat are forever reminders of his wisdom and perseverance to save the nation. Or maybe a modern leader comes to mind; Malala Yousafzai. A young girl who has shown the world that standing up for women 's rights against the Taliban is not only possible but essential for humanity. Often when we speak of leaders, we neglect to mention the multitude of young individuals who are in our everyday lives. These hard working men and women strive to change the world for the better by helping those around them and paving the way for the leaders of the next generation. As stated by John W. Gardner, “Leadership is the process of persuasion or example by which an individual induces a group to pursue objectives shared by the leader and his or her followers.” Too often we are trapped under the illusion that to be a leader you must be a famous figure, someone whom everyone knows. While being a leader may cause you to be well known, not all famous individuals are leaders. Gardner speaks the truth when he says, “Leaders come in many forms, with many styles and diverse qualities,” from quiet to courageous, from empathetic to cool and decisive. Everyone has the

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