Video Blog

There are several things which come to mind about this video:

Although the behavior by some people is shocking, it possibly could be explained by two main factors. First and foremost a general lack of understanding of the differences and similarities between cultures and the personal choice of religion. Secondly, I think the post 9/11 conflicts have spotlighted the Muslim community in America. This occurred during WWII with the Japanese Americans, and is sadly a consequence of war back on the home front.

I see the label of an American being viewed with two different worldviews. One being, the idea of the 1950’s household-traditional white husband and wife with a couple of kids and a two car garage. Anyone who does not match up with their standards are not “real” Americans.

The other worldview in the video is one that more understands who Americans are-all of us. The United States is made up of so many different races, religions and people groups. The fact that one nation has been able to over time integrate such a variety of people into our society is testament to the success of the American Experiment.  

The video also showed that there are people who are willing to stand up for what is right. They did this by not shopping at the store, becoming vocal against the store owner, and joining the woman to show solidarity. The most encouraging aspect of this experiment was the fact people, who did not know each other, stood up for their common man.

But on the other side of this experiment-the majority of people stood by and did nothing. This can be seen in many situations in history. This is why having moral leadership in your community or organization is crucial. Only a few were willing to take a stand, and they are your true leaders. Anyone can “lead” during the easy days- leadership occurs when no one else is willing or able to bear responsibility and at times public scrutiny to lead others.

“The surest way for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” –Edmund Burke

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Assessments Blog

During our time in BLF we have taken quite a few self-assessments, challenges and encountered unique situations few students ever get the opportunity to experience.  Because of all the self-assessments we have taken part of I have become more self-aware on my strengths and areas which I need to account for when building a project team.  Through every experience I learned to be more aware of my surroundings with people with different backgrounds.

With the experience of the challenges and the assessments I think it’s safe to say that my perception of leadership has not changed, but has been developed and enhanced. Leaders in the 21^st Century have to be more than bold and charismatic, they need to be adaptable and understanding of other cultures.

There are two different types of education, know what-and know how. Know what education is based on learning facts and information for a class. We may us this information if it specific to our career, but otherwise the knowledge will be little more than trivia. Know how education is based on learning basic skills then applying those skills in real world application in a changing environment.

I think BLF if based on understanding know how education model and is the best way to set ourselves apart from our peers in the workplace. Having the freedom to make decisions and mistakes with few rules or guidelines is the best way to challenge ourselves. The program allows creativity to become a core skill which is greatly needed in any workplace. I am thankful for the opportunity to take the assessments which have helped me to express my strengths to future employers. The challenges develop creativity, leadership and time management skills. Both the self-assessments and the challenges have gone hand in hand to help me develop and prepare for post college employment.

Jack