Recognition, Respect, Reverence

Recognition, respect, and reverence are some of the key elements that are deemed necessary to develop and enhance the trust, confidence, acceptance, and thus allegiance of many. Over the centuries, men of power and status developed these by crafting grand titles, dressing ostentatiously, flaunting their wealth and well-being, building idols of themselves, having grand castles, palaces, monuments, and patrons for grandiose events and functions. At times, when desperate and deemed necessary, they showed extreme violence and brutality. Some individuals portrayed themselves as holy persons with exclusive divine connections, having supernatural power and thus superhuman capabilities. The masses would thereafter be fascinated and awed by these portrayals, mannerism, and followed them blindly, largely for vested interests, to protect themselves and their families. These are in direct contrast to true great leaders who demonstrate virtuous characters based on sound knowledge, strength, courage, scholarship, wisdom, piety, humility, and servanthood. Superfluous grandiosity of the self in its many forms is avoided and possibly abhorred. In addition, they develop great followers who also share their virtuous traits based on sound knowledge, abilities, and thus competence. They empower the individuals and the masses who subsequently contribute to humanity and the development of great civilizations and possibly empires.