all these things. How do you keep everybody happy when they all want something?" He experienced real frustration. In the concluding square Snoopy was gritting his teeth and commiserating, "I hate being head beagle!" Have you ever felt that way? It is necessary to have leaders and that some of us lead. It is re quired that certain ones take the initiative as the Lord has ordained. Cod's work cannot go forward without it. It is a good premise to follow that we should not seek to lead if we can help it. Too many are anxious for places of responsi bility when they are not qualified emotionally, physically or educa tionally. Success can be a ruthless com petitor. It flatters and nourishes our weaknesses, lulling us into compla cency. We bask in the sunshine of accomplishment and lose the spirit of humility so that we no longer visualize all the factors which have contributed to our success. After all, we are only one of a team. It is in unity that we have strength. Each unit has to function with precision. If you would be a leader then discover some of the laws of lead ership. Learn not only from your own mistakes but also from the ex periences of others. Leading can be costly and difficult. At the same time, it is very rewarding and sat isfactory. Remember, if the Lord has called you then He will equip and mature you for His own sacred tasks. The great example for lead ership has been determined in the life and ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ. May we say with Him, "My meat is to do the will of Him who sent me."
the wishes of various individuals. In an understanding of this situ ation it has been pointed out that "the man who is worthy of being a leader of men will never complain about the stupidity of his helpers, the ingratitude of mankind, nor the inappreciation of the public. These are all a part of the great game of life. To meet and overcome prob lems, not going down before them in disgust, discouragement, or de feat, is the final proof of the real leader." Are you able to keep go ing on your job even when people appear to be unkind? Is your lead ership dependent upon the ap proval of others or is your higher motivation the sheer joy of obedi ence to God? A leader is never a follower; he does not look around to see who's coming behind him. To do this would spell failure. To be effective calls for courage and personal dis cipline. You must learn to get along with people exhibiting patience and respect for their ideas and opinions. Learn to put yourself in the other fellow's place. Cultivate cheerfulness and loyalty in your group. Above all, of course, a lead er has to work. That is the one vital ingredient. He must be able to think, plan, and delegate responsi bilities. Being a leader is rewarding even though at times very painful. I am an avid admirer of "Peanuts" in the comics. Charles Schultz, the author, includes a great deal of practical thoughts. I recall seeing "Snoopy" who was shown in the first cartoon frame sitting on top of his dog house. He explained, "My poor sec retary is exhausted. Look how tired she is." (She was sleeping at her typewriter.) In another frame "Snoopy" complained, "I can't do
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