Who serves Whom?

Great insight frequently appears in unexpected places. National Public Radio’s Morning Edition featured an interview today with David Simon of “The Wire” and “Generation Kill” about his top movie picks. When asked why he picked the WWI film “Paths of Glory,” Mr. Simon explained that this movie is about what happens between individuals and the institutions they serve. He saw a direct parallel with the disaster happening today on Wall Street — the result of what happens when the paradigm shifts to what individuals can do to advance their institutions and not about what those institutions are supposed to do for society. !!!! I’d extend that thought to our nonprofit institutions as well. If the conversations at your organization are solely about how to advance your institution, and not focused on how to improve your community, then perhaps you need to run right out and get the DVD of Paths of Glory.