As America's vast legions of caregivers work to meet our deepest needs I wonder each day: How well are they led? 

   Some leaders shine with the light of loving support. They understand that their top responsibility is to take care of the people who take care of people. Baylor's Chris York (pictured) is like that in numerous brilliant and Godly ways. So are George Mikitarian at Florida's Parrish Medical Center & Laurie Harting at Dignity Health in Sacramento. These are among America's Radical Loving Leaders.

   Too many leaders are failing our caregivers. Instead of offering encouragement, compassion & strength they peddle fear & incompetence. My heart breaks for every caregiver who comes to work each day afraid of their boss.

   This is one reason I worry about Donald Trump's relative success, not as a political commentary, but as a reflection on leadership temperament. Will his bullying, boastful & abusive behavior encourage bad leaders? Make them think their own failed behavior might actually be the best approach? Meanwhile, Trump's leadership is splintering relationships in ways not seen since The Civil War. If leaders believe in love for themselves & their children they must turn their backs on such fear-based approaches.  

   Long ago, Gandhi proved that "Power based on love is a thousand times more effective & permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment."

   Caregiver satisfaction & energy often flow from the caregiver's feelings about their boss. The truth is as clear: If want positive outcomes engage positive energy. Leaders who practice this must be affirmed. Those who do not must be retrained or removed.

   It is the responsibility of leaders to care for caregivers not bully them.

-Erie Chapman