This morning I was reading Leadership Now Blog, and came across the following blurb that got me thinking...

"We have also learned a great deal about the limitations and shortcomings of our financial system and about the frailties of the people running and abusing it. We must make sure that these lessons are put to good effect. The world will not be a hopeless mess as long as it is in a learning curve....There's one lesson to be learned above all others: There is no substitute for prudent, strong and courageous leadership. This is what the civilized world currently lacks and must find--soon."

—Paul Johnson, eminent British historian and author,
"A World in Search of Leaders" in Forbes November 24, 2008