By Eric Noel Roman

Grab that bull and direct its horns where it needs to go.

“I am here for fun, I will not take the lead role in this race,” I said at the very beginning to my friends.

The race began and it was teams of twenty, with five hours of teamwork activities to get through a section of wooded trails. The teams were compiled of various shapes, sizes, and ages. At first, everyone was on the same page. The mosquitos were beginning to swarm. The sun had no hiding spots, it was clear skies in late spring early summer. South Florida was already becoming its “oven” state. The race continued and about two hours into the course the structure fell apart. People were at different levels of tired, tempers were shortening, and fellowship was diminishing. People were beginning to bicker and ignore each other.

“Alright guys, I’m done. This is how we are going to finish this race. You four are working together. I’m joining this other small group. The rest can figure it out. The task is a fireman’s carry for the next two miles. Now, as smaller groups, we work out the issues and I will push forward.”

I looked at one of the members of my group, mounted her on my shoulders, and moved on. I led the team to the finish with her on my shoulders. I showed the team that we must work together. At the finish line we had to complete a series of exercises and obstacles. I coached them along by showing them I had no worries putting myself at the front of the unknown so they would see comfort in accomplishment.

“So, what was that about you not taking the lead?” My friend whispered to me.

He continued, “You are a natural leader. It’s ok to take charge and lead people to safety. It shows that you have character, Eric.”