Leadership Amid Uncertainty: A Mother’s Perspective Amidst Lebanon’s Turmoil
(Photo: SAT-7)
As Mother’s Day approaches in Lebanon, families grapple with daily uncertainties amidst growing conflict. Balancing leadership roles with personal responsibilities, mothers like Marianne Awaraji find themselves in a challenging environment where every decision is shadowed by unpredictability.
The recent surge in conflict across Lebanon has displaced nearly 700,000 individuals, with 200,000 of them being children, as reported by authorities. Many families now find refuge with relatives, in churches, and within school buildings. For those who have chosen to stay, every routine moment is tinged with the fragility of their circumstances, leading to significant mental, emotional, and spiritual strain.
A mother from southern Lebanon, now displaced, expressed the emotional toll of leaving home: “The hardest thing is leaving, not knowing what to take or if you will ever return.” This sentiment resonates with many, including another mother from the region who shared, “My heart is with every mother in this war.” Such expressions of solidarity are deeply understood by mothers across the region.
Despite these challenges, life continues. For leaders, the day begins with decisions, support, and strategic planning. Yet, in the background lies the pressing question: “Are we safe?” Leadership in these moments transcends authority, embracing presence and courage rather than control.
Challenges in leadership foster resilience—an unwavering commitment to lead, support, and advance missions despite obstacles. Mothers in leadership embody this resilience, bridging their professional duties with the nurturing roles at home. They become role models, demonstrating to their children that courage entails moving forward amidst fear.
In these uncertain times, leadership becomes an act of faith. As Marianne, a Christian leader, notes, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) This faith sustains the belief that their efforts are meaningful, that hope triumphs over fear, and that divine presence persists even amid chaos.
A mother in Iran reflects this sentiment, stating, “I have invested my strength and years into building our home,” continuing to care and hope despite adversities. This Mother’s Day, the impact of mothers leading in various capacities—be it a team, household, or congregation—is profound.
The strength and stability they provide serve as a beacon of hope and faith to their children and colleagues, showcasing that sometimes the most significant leadership is simply being present with unwavering love and courage in turbulent times.
Marianne Awaraji, a Christian leader in Lebanon, works with SAT-7 ARABIC as an Audience Relations Manager and presenter. She shares insights on faith, leadership, and resilience within the Middle Eastern context.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
