In the book Work: A Kingdom Perspective on Labor, John W. Gardner is quoted to have said, “The society which scorns excellence in plumbing because plumbing is a humble activity, and tolerates shoddiness in philosophy because philosophy is an exalted activity, will have neither good plumbing not good philosophy. Neither its pipes nor its theories will hold water.”
Isn’t that an awesome statement about the value of work, regardless of what that work is? I love it because I’ve watched some status-minded leaders treat some people on their team in a better or worse manner depending on the role they play. Gardner’s statement reminds us that all work is valuable, necessary, and to be honored.
In the book of 1 Corinthians 12, Paul goes to great lengths to point out the equal importance of every member of the body. The eye can’t cast out the hand thinking that it is superior, just as we must not act as if one person or position is better than another. In any organization, every role is needed, regardless of the perceived social status attached. As leaders we must treat everyone with respect, and with gratitude that people want to do their jobs – jobs which we may not be willing to do ourselves.
We all should be the type of leader who honors everyone and who makes others feel better about themselves every time we are with them. We need excellent plumbing and excellent philosophy. Without either, and everything in between, we would be missing something that helps the whole operation run smoothly. Honor everyone.
Lead well.