Tania Bright Cook - who empowered you?

Tania Bright Cook is Deputy Director, Research and Development, Salvation Army

'I have a simple philosophy in life - learn from what you loved receiving and replicate it for others.  An emotional 'paying it forward' if you like. The opposite is also as profound - learn from what you didn't like receiving and chose not to replicate it! Sadly, as I'm sure is true for others, I have encountered more leaders who have capped me to the limit of their potential, rather than made a way for me to explore and express my gifts with no ceiling. So when you encounter someone who freely opens up the doors for you, ushers you into new space all the while covering you with a fierce protection and encourages every ounce of potential to come out - you remember them.   

Russell Rook is one of these individuals in my life. A secure, Godly, affirming leader - he saw leadership in me when I was beginning to doubt I had it. I still keep a card he sent me when I first started working with him a number of years ago, "Tarn, it has been a huge encouragement that someone of your calibre and with your expertise  and track record has jumped on board. I hope and pray that these days will be fruitful for you and you can be  incredibly effective in terms of your ministry". You note where the emphasis is, on me - not him, not the organisation - but on praying I would be fruitful and my ministry effective. I loved receiving this empowering encouragement from Russ, it shaped me then and he continues offering it to this day, shaping me now! 

I make every effort to replicate this empowerment for others. Those that live with, work with and walk the journey with me should never be capped to my potential or insecurity - I want my teams to achieve so much more than I ever could, because I gave them freedom to steam right past me with their God-given gifts and annointing.  Isn't that the way of Christ? A key principle of the empowering relationship we're in with Him,  "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works......" '

How can you empower others this year - through your work, in your church, in your family, among your friends?

Comments

[Debbie Williams]

Thought-provoking words from an amazing lady. Tarn wishing you many more years of professional success and hoping all your personal dreams come true

[Anna France-Williams]

'Learn from what you loved receiving and replicate it for others' - this is such a great philosophy. I aim to put this into practice with my two kids and in the work I do with mums and women in my local area. Bless you Tania!