Francesco Bernadone (known to the world as Francis of Assisi) quickly attracted thousands of young people from their comfortable middle-class lives to sharing with him in a life of poverty and radical compassion. How? In large part it was because Francesco had a gift for enjoying the WOW experiences of human life. Plants, animals, solitude, friendship, giving help, receiving none - Francesco had a knack for finding the WOW in all these things. He was known for having nothing and yet being able to find the WOW in that! It's because of that inspiring attitude that so many of all creeds and kinds find inspiration from Francesco eight centuries later. A friend once told me of the joy his baby girl found in discovering triangles in the world around her. Oh for a child-like, Franciscan ability to suck on the simple joys life! For Francis it took a war, time in prison and a breakdown to give Francis that new perspective. And for us...?

Just got to this post 3 weeks after everyone else! Can I add that along with hearing the leader's verbal account of him/herself I have found it tremendously valuable to actually tag along with another leader for a day and simply watch. Sometimes actions speak louder than words. I'm a very verbal learner but actually seeing another leader's attitude and approach in action - I have found that invaluable.