Leadership Lessons from Bastille Day

Today, France celebrates its independence with fireworks, as we in the U.S. did, just 10 days ago.

The storming of the Bastille is the symbol of the victory of the French people against the Monarchy. What started as a revolt became a Revolution that changed the face of France's policy forever.

France put in place a Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen, defining a set of individual and collective rights for all the people, regardless of their estate. This is very similar to what happened in the United States, however the U.S. was being ruled at a distance by the King of England. Interesting that our declarations occurred just 13 years apart from each other in the 18th century.

Both stories are inspirational in that they show, it is possible, even when your head thinks you are "out numbered," to fight for what you believe in - and win, against all odds. And the energy and commitment of small numbers of people can be more powerful than weapons and large numbers.

We need to remember this as we continue to hold the flame for enforcing basic human rights around the world. Many other countries are not as fortunate as France and the U.S. And, we all still need to stay vigilant with how our elected officials govern, particularly in these turbulent times.Anything is possible.