One thinks of the leadership approach of some as being consistent with the abusive behavior of bullies and those who commit various forms of assault. In general, abusers and bullies only violate, hurt and take from those who cannot stop them. It is never equal; never a fair fight. They only target those they consider weaker, those who have no power to stop them. Such abusers cause fears and leverage those fears.

But we should not ignore or overlook the latent fears in people who in this way terrorize others. It is right there, sometimes concealed by a smug look or unblushing gaze.

A lady told of some women in Belize who were known to have physically suffered violence at the hands of abusive men, their lovers, boyfriends and husbands. In the eyes of such men, these women were physically weaker and unable to stop them or resist their aggression.  Here’s the thing: afterward, a woman who had been the man’s punching bag would prepare a beautiful meal for that man, knowing exactly what dishes he loved to eat. Upon receiving this prepared meal, served with a smile and kindness, he dared not to eat a single bite, as he deeply feared what might be hidden in these wonderful foods. 

For a moment, look past the resignation and fear one easily sees in the face of countless victims of abusive leadership across this land. Consider the latent and reasonable fears of any abuser, especially those who have operated by violence and the threats of violence. It is as if something deep within knows: a reckoning is due and retribution is deserved.