“Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”  - Philippians 2:4 

According to author, speaker, and pastor John C. Maxwell, “leadership is influence, nothing more, and nothing less.” He also believes that influence is gained by adding value to others. According to Webster’s dictionary, a hero is “a role model.” So then, what would a “heroic leader” look like? I would say, a “role model with influence.”

Lillian Tan is one of the heroic leaders in my life. I met Lillian when she was a music professor at the University of Wisconsin at River Falls, and I was auditioning for her as aspiring piano major. I had experienced several disastrous auditions up until them. The worst was an audition for Dr. Donald Betts at Macalester College.  After playing for him, he said “I’m not sure why you are here. You are just not good enough to be in our program.” 

After auditioning for Lillian, she said “my assessment is that you are high on talent, and low on effort.” She was right. But then she said “I hear something in your playing that tells me that I should give you a chance.” That was the beginning of one of the most significant relationships in my life. Lillian encouraged me, but she held me accountable. She relentlessly pushed me to realize my potential. She coached me on critical life situations, but expected me to make the decisions. She added value to me every day, and never asked for anything in return. We are good friends to this day.

One day, the university hosted a master class, a public lesson conducted by a guest professor.  Lillian selected me as one of the students to play. What I didn’t know is that the guest professor was Dr. Donald Betts. I had a panic attack, but Lillian calmly said “Craig, you have come a long way and you will be fine.” When I stepped in front of the full concert hall, my heart started to pound. I don’t believe Dr. Betts remembered me. I played for him, and when I finished, he said “you are a fine player; well done.” I looked out into the audience and there was Lillian in the front row – pumping her fists and beaming from ear to ear. A heroic leader celebrates the success of others.

God expects us to be heroic leaders, like Lillian. I have aspired to be a heroic leader in my life. Will you be a heroic leader for the people in your life?

Craig Koehnen