The question as to which of being loved or being feared is better is as a result of the complexities of human nature, especially as it relates to the position of leadership, authority, power and relevance. While some views (like Machiavelli‘s) opine that it is better to be feared as a leader, some outrightly oppose this view.

I start this brief with a short story.

There lived a powerful king who owned a horse he cherished to bits. He loved the horse so much so that the love he felt for this horse outweighed that which he felt for his servants. This horse, Warrior, was virtually his most beloved companion.

Fast forward, Warrior fell sick and the King was devastated after all his efforts to get it well proved futile. He assembled the best medical staff to find a cure for it but Warrior couldn’t conquer the war of death. It eventually died.

The king decided to organize a befitting farewell for his beloved Warrior. Funeral arrangements were underway as he sent his fearful orders across for each and every person in the township to be present for the funeral.

The day was ripe and the proceeding was underway. Every single being within the township congregated as they brought along presents like foodstuffs and livestock to the king as a way of condolence for his great loss. The horse’s funeral was a success as it saw thousands of people gracing it.

Few months later, the king fell strongly ill. He was in his sick bed and couldn’t even utter a word during those moments. The royal family did all they could but the king couldn’t survive. The king died.

It was time for his funeral ceremony. The king is no more so fearful orders could no longer be disseminated. How many people attended the King’s own funeral? Only 20 people — who were just the royal family members. Yes! Only 20 people were present.

This story is worthy of picking something useful from.

Fear can cause one to act as though s/he loves a thing. The king could coerce his people to attend his horse’s funeral but for his, he was nowhere to coerce. People are often happy, more open and willing to obey, help and contribute value to the person so loved. A loved leader encourages his followers to succeed rather than coercing them against any indiscretion, error or loss. A loved person builds his people up and earns their respect each day.

To this end, we should all strive in gaining pure love in all life endeavors (especially in leadership) as opposed to being feared. Both strategies may get people to behave in ways we so want, but it is the end that will continue to justify the means. Being feared may get us what we want — but only temporarily. But being loved brings along everlasting gains. So, be sure to be loved and not feared.

Peace — 🕊️

6 thoughts on “THE DICHOTOMY BETWEEN FEAR AND LOVE”
  1. When a leader inspires love in his followers, they remain loyal and committed to his cause. If he creates fear, he opens himself for internal enmity and disloyalty. Great piece my brother.

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