To my little brother, on the eve of his first vote

Remember, it’s not just about choosing a leader; it’s about the kind of leadership you believe in, the values that resonate with you, and the vision you hold for the world we share.

Your first vote is a rite of passage in this great democratic experiment we call America. Voting might seem like an individual task, but it’s part of something magnificent—a shared journey that connects you to millions of others, including the 8 million young Americans eligible to cast their first ballots this year.

The power of voting is a sacred one. It’s a gift that past generations fought to protect, and one that, as history shows, can never be taken for granted. In that voting booth, it’s just you and your thoughts. You’re handed this responsibility to weigh the questions that will affect our country, and in doing so, you’ll leave a mark on our future. Remember, it’s not just about choosing a leader; it’s about the kind of leadership you believe in, the values that resonate with you, and the vision you hold for the world we share.

Ask yourself not only what kind of leader we need but also, what kind of leader would you aspire to be? It’s easy to cast votes based on headlines and sound bites, but the vote that truly counts is one that speaks from your own heart and conscience. Every choice reflects who we are and what we stand for, and that’s a duty worth taking seriously.

Integrity, courage, and imagination

In grad school, I was lucky enough to learn from Rev. Dr. Robert Franklin, a civil rights leader and former president of Morehouse College. He defines moral leaders in one succinct sentence: “Moral leaders are people with integrity, courage, and imagination who serve the common good while inviting others to join them.”

Here's what I think he means:

• Integrity is about listening to what is genuine in ourselves. It aligns our values with our actions.

• Courage means stepping up when the moment demands it, accepting the risk of standing alone when necessary. It is our deepest convictions in action. 

• Imagination is about painting a vision of what the world can be. It’s the spark of change, the beginning of overcoming challenges with creativity.

Moral leadership is selfless. It channels integrity, courage, and imagination for the common good. And the common good means everyone has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life. This kind of leadership serves a cause greater than oneself.

Finally, moral leaders invite others to join the journey. Leadership requires humility; truly great leaders know they achieve nothing of substance alone. They see the value in teamwork and believe deeply in others.

The choice in this election

By now, you’ve heard me say it more than once—this election is consequential. It’s a turning point for our country, and the candidates represent vastly different values and worldviews. It’s also a test for us, as individuals, about what matters most. So, let your values guide you in making this choice.

I’ll share mine, not to suggest yours, but as an example of how values can guide us. Mine are: 1) “Lights for Each Other,” 2) “Servant Leadership,” 3) “Heart of a Champion,” and 4) “Integrity is True North.” These principles shape how I treat others and serve as a compass for my choices and actions.

“Lights for Each Other” is all about compassion. True leadership is about creating a community, family, or team that cares for one another. It’s about embracing others, finding joy together, and having the grace to laugh at ourselves. Compassionate leaders have patience with the mistakes of others and the genius of every person. Their kindness and mercy are not signs of weakness but of great strength.

Servant leadership is the highest form of leadership. All people are important and deserve respect, and the best leaders put “we” before “me.” This approach is rooted in wisdom: listen more than you speak, treat others as you’d want to be treated. This is about connection and really knowing your people and inviting them to be co-creators of what you’re working toward. People support what they help create, and a servant leadership mindset leads to the most powerful, enduring results.

“Heart of a Champion” speaks to courage. If something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well. Take risks, be creative, acknowledge excellence, and remember—courage is contagious. A leader with heart competes not against people but against challenges, striving to lift others along the way.

Finally, every set of values needs a compass. “Integrity is True North” reminds me that honesty is essential. Integrity is about holding steady to who you are, and whose you are, even when your values are tested.

As you step into that booth, remember that your voice does matter. It’s a voice that, joined with millions of others, forms the pulse of our democracy. Vote according to your values and what you believe our country can be. You're not just choosing a candidate—you’re choosing the kind of America we’ll build together. So take a deep breath and cast your vote with confidence. You’re part of something profoundly American.