Blinded by Talent

Why is it that so many leaders are blinded to the flaws of a person because that person displays exceptional ability in a certain area? Some leaders, no doubt, are unaware of the character issues of the gifted individual, while other leaders choose to ignore these flaws. Whichever of these is the case, the end is the same: talent receives promotion; character results in stagnation.

Rafe Esquith, in his book There Are No Shortcuts, admits to making this mistake with his students. Esquith taught at Hobart Boulevard Elementary School in Los Angeles, and early in his teaching career, he fell into the trap of awarding his special students with additional benefits. He soon realized the error of his ways, "Before deciding if a kid is truly special, observe and listen to his peers. They are a better indicator of a child's worth and potential than you."

It seems that many kids and young adults possess the uncanny ability of duplicity. They behave as mature, semi-sophisticated humans when in the presence of important people. This short-lived existence in adulthood is replaced by an abundance of foolishness. This immaturity, stemming from a heart of hypocrisy, leaves a lingering stigma upon God, their family, and themselves.

And so, leaders, for the love of humanity, please don't be blinded by superficial qualities, such as a musical talent or an outgoing personality. Ask the peers of these "talented" individuals in order to achieve an accurate estimate of their true self. Remember, in the eyes of God, who sees all things, character triumphs over talent any day of the week.

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