Lord Acton’s line is so famous and so undeniably true that most people don’t even know that it’s a quote from a real person: Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

It’s been proven time and time again in history. When people get power, it changes them. That’s why the biggest breakthroughs in the evolution of government have been around checks and balances on power – so that no one person can be fully corrupted, and if they are corrupt, can’t simply do what they want.

Most leaders don’t have much of a choice as far as the government they take over. Yet this is what makes a true leaders reigns so remarkable.

Both Conservatives and Liberals have had unlimited power. Unlimited wealth. Unlimited sycophants. What’s my question?? Did they give into it? Did they do their jobs instead? Did they stay true to their values?

Power must be extraordinarily difficult to resist. It’s not that power absolutely corrupts, it is that power reveals the character of those who are susceptible to corruption, who are corrupt in their bones.

My thoughts for today, we should remain wary of power and fame, for they are hard to resist. But if we find ourselves in the spotlight or in a position of leadership, let us see that as both a gift and a challenge. Can we be good despite it? Can we strive to be an example for others to follow? Power can be an aid to our positive energy. Let it reveal our character, and let us rise to the occasion.

Today be a true leader!

By Brian Nadon