Monthly Newsletter February 2011

ON LEADERSHIP

‎"A commander-in-chief is never dealing with the beginning of any event - the position from which we always contemplate it. The commander-in-chief is always in the midst of a series of shifting events and so he never can at any moment consider the whole import of an event that is occurring. Moment by moment the event is imperceptibly shaping itself, and at every moment of this continuous, uninterrupted shaping of events the commander-in-chief is in the midst of a most complex play of intrigues, worries, contingencies, authorities, projects, counsels, threats, and deceptions, and is continually obliged to reply to innumerable questions addressed to him, which constantly conflict with one another." Tolstoy

Any type of leader of people has the monumental task of trying to understand any given situation so as to make the best possible decision. But no situation can ever be fully understood. No true judgment can ever be made by a person. A truly great leader must be humble, he must recognise his innate ability to be wrong or make an error of judgment. He should consider the principle of the Indian proverb to “Walk a mile in another man's moccasins before you criticize him".

UTSIM

I’m back at work – in more ways than one! I’m working at school here in Australia, but I’m also working for UTSIM. This involves late night Skype calls to Ukraine as well as continuing to work on a solid three year business plan for UTSIM. I’ve been thinking, talking and writing about issues such as rent, staffing, curriculum, fees, numbers of students, development and growth of UTSIM in other towns etc. There is a lot for me to get my head around – but as I start to nut it out on paper I’m beginning to see some things more clearly. Like the above quote, everything is constantly moving and shifting and establishing strong foundations and clear guidelines is imperative.

I’ve had some long conversations with Natasha – and there are many more to come. We have to make some choices regarding rent in Rzhyshchiv in the next couple of months. I have to do that from this side of the world with advice from those on the ground in Ukraine.

Last year we were donated money to buy chairs for UTSIM. We were able to buy chairs for Rzhyshchiv and Kaharlyk. I’ve attached some photos. All the staff and students are very grateful for this generous gift.

LIFE OUTSIDE OF BUSINESS (or inside Australia)

I have had a wonderful time staying with the Watkins last year. I have now moved to new accommodation and David and Jacky Bryant are very kindly having me stay at their place.

I had three great weeks relaxing in NZ (see previous posts) and returned to a heat wave in Sydney. Some days went above 40 but the entire week was above 30. The shopping centres were full of people seeking air conditioned relief.

I decided to head back to Beecroft Rugby and turned up for pre-season training. It is definitely a case of the older I get the fitter I was. I felt like dying – but I know little steps and consistent effort will bring rewards – as they do in all areas of life.

This coming weekend I’m heading south for Kathy and Scott’s wedding. It will be good to see extended Gollan/Wellings families again.

I have a great place to live and I have 3 days of work already for this week. Casual work can be spasmodic and I have applied to a number of schools in the area.

Thanks to Skype I’ve managed to talk to at least seven people from Rzhyshchiv in the past seven days.

WHAT YA READIN’?

I’m almost there. I’ve almost finished War and Peace. I’m thoroughly enjoying it now and when I find the time, I’m really eating it up pages at a time.

THANKS

To Luke and Catherine for the chairs. Cheers for the chairs!

Love Jono

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