#influence

Over the past few weeks, I have been reflecting on the changing political landscape in Tamil Nadu and the growing excitement surrounding our newly elected Chief Minister. Much of that excitement has been driven by popularity, public image, and the enormous influence that comes from years in the film industry.

Whether he succeeds or fails remains to be seen. Time alone will tell.

But his election raises an important leadership question for all of us.

What makes a real leader—position or influence?

Position can be given overnight. Influence must be earned over time.

A title may place someone in an office, but it does not automatically place them in people's hearts. Authority can compel compliance, but influence inspires commitment. Position can make people listen; influence makes people believe.

Every generation longs for change. Today, many young people are looking for leaders who will address issues of employment, education, corruption, social harmony, opportunity, and hope for the future. They are not merely looking for a new face. They are looking for meaningful transformation.

The same is true in ministry.

A pastor may have a pulpit. A coordinator may have a designation. A leader may have a title. But none of these automatically create influence. Influence is built through character, consistency, competence, compassion, and credibility.

Jesus held no political office, commanded no army, and occupied no palace. Yet His influence continues to shape billions of lives two thousand years later.

As leaders, our goal should not be merely to seek positions. Our goal should be to become people whose lives influence others toward truth, excellence, and God's purposes.

The question is not, "What title do I hold?"

The better question is, "Whose life is different because of my influence?"

"It's frightful that people who are so ignorant should have so much influence."

George Orwell

Most people assume that influence comes from logic. They believe consumers buy because of product quality, voters support leaders because of policy, and communities form because of shared utility. Rational explanations feel clean and comforting. Yet history repeatedly suggests something deeper. People do not merely follow products, leaders, or organizations. They follow meaning. They gravitate…

this album is dedicated to the proliferation of trash found in social media  https://3projhofhighestheights.bandcamp.com/album/clean-up-your-mess#producersbelike  #bandcampmusic #diy #digital #influence released February 28, 2026© all rights reserved