So the Archbishop of Canterbury has doubts about the existence of God. Good on him for admitting it.
Many politicians could learn from his frank and honest confession
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How refreshing to see vulnerability from one of our leaders. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, admits that he sometimes questions the existence of God – a concession that immediately makes him appear more human, honest and trustworthy.
Welby's standing is built on the premise of God's existence. God's his boss. No concept of God? No church, no cushy job as an Archbishop. His position would be safer if he stuck to the party line and convinced as many people as possible that yes, God definitely exists. Instead he dabbles with the dangerous truth, risking his personal and professional credibility.
The willingness to expose this vulnerability in public, though, requires strength and bravery. Let's transpose this frank admission of doubt onto other leaders. There aren't many politicians who would say: "Actually, I'm not sure we're headed in the right direction - we're as confused as you all are sometimes." It's more usual to see politicians steaming ahead, bullishly repeating their policies, even when a hint of panic in their eyes tells you that they know they're out of their depth - and they know we know they're out of their depth. How refreshing would it be to hear more words along the lines of: "We might not be right on this issue, and we're as worried as you are about the outcome."
The same applies to bosses and managers at work. A little vulnerability can win fans. Most of us have been exhausted at one stage or another by a manager's arrogance or determination to stick to a certain path, even when it becomes evident it's not the right way.
Some religious types will be angered by Welby's public wobble but I wouldn't be surprised if his comments win him - and Christianity - a few more followers. Really, not many of us have a clue what we're doing in life. True leaders are able to admit this.
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