Few of you will think you have time to read this very long essay from “The Daily Stoic” about the traits and characteristics of a great leader:

https://dailystoic.com/leadership.

I would urge you, however, to find the time. It beats TV and Twitter. The focus is on the Roman emperor and general, Marcus Aurelius, with examinations of modern figures, such as General James Mattis, and historical personalities like George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower. Although President Trump is directly mentioned only once, as an example of a bad leader, the essay is in sum a scathing indictment of his leadership attributes — or lack thereof. In most ways, Trump is the Anti-Aurelius. Likewise, the principles in the essay can be read as a sharp criticism of the toadies and sycophants with whom he has surrounded himself, as well as of the moral cowards in the House and Senate. As the 2020 elections draw ever closer, we should remember that in a Republic like ours the quality of the people we elect mirror our qualities as citizens.

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