“Down” is a word usually reserved for losers and the bear market.

“Down” is a word that colors whatever it touches…
downfall,
downcast,
downhill,
downhearted,
down and out.

Down, as the way up, is counter intuitive and counter cultural.

Enter – Gilmore Junio.

On February 11th, 2014 no one besides his family, coaches and teammates were familiar with his name.

On February 12th, 2014 most Canadians knew who he was.

Junio, a Canadian Olympic athlete, qualified for the finals in the Men’s 1000-metre speed skating event. He had trained and dreamed of this opportunity for over four years. He gave it up so a teammate, Denny Morrison, could get an opportunity to compete. Why? Because he believed it was in the best interest of the team if Morrison raced. “I believe that as Canadians, we’re not just here to compete; we are here to win. Denny has proven to be a consistent medal threat in that distance.”

Morrison made the most of his opportunity and won a medal.

Junio made the most of his opportunity and won the world.

Here are 11 reasons why down is the way up:

1. Our best moments come when we selflessly serve others.

2. Not looking out for #1, can make you #1.

3. Descending is the path to true greatness.

4. You have to give up to go up.

5. It takes courage to become less so others can become more.

6. Mother Teresa said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

7. Servant leadership is servant first and last.

8. If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.

9. Jesus originated the term “servant leadership.” Jesus took the very nature of a servant. He lived a selfless, obedient life.

10. Jesus made himself nothing. He did not cling to the advantages of his status. He set aside the privileges of deity. (Philippians 2:1-11)

11. At the Last Supper, the final lesson that Jesus left with His disciples was one of humility. What would you do if it were your last chance to influence the people closest to you with something huge? Jesus takes a towel and water and washes his disciples’ feet. They get upset and say, “You can’t do that.” Then Jesus tells them, “You guys can’t even be with me at all, if you don’t get this.”

“There are no traffic jams on the extra mile.” Zig Ziglar

Take the road less traveled: descend into greatness.

Question: What is your opinion on “descending into greatness?” If servant leadership is so good, why aren’t there more servant leaders?

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