Tribute from Chris, Mike's younger son Tao Te, Chapter 17 When the Master governs, the people are hardly aware that he exists. Next best is a leader who is loved. Next, one who is feared. The worst is one who is despised. If you don’t trust the people, you make them untrustworthy. The Master doesn’t talk, he acts. When his work is done, the people say, “Amazing: we did it, all by ourselves!” (translation by Stephen Mitchell, 1995) My Father The Tao Te Ching is an ancient Chinese text that contains many fundamental wisdoms about how to live a good life. Chapter 17 describes the essence of great leadership. The first time I read this I thought of Mike. When the Master governs, the people are hardly aware that he exists ● My father never adopted a position of superiority, he was just “Mike” ● He was a true egalitarian. I remember being told at a young age that parents should earn their children’s respect, that this was not an automatic right. ● And he took his parental responsibilities very seriously, providing a glorious childhood for me and Tony; a beautiful home, a private school, endless sports and entertainment, wonderful holidays, our own cars and ample living allowance whilst at university ● At no point did he ever show that he expected anything back in return ● We have always known that our father was there for us, though he never imposed himself or his position upon us. If you don’t trust the people, you make them untrustworthy. ● Mike believed in people. He saw the best in everyone, the untapped potential that they had yet to realise and the exciting possibilities ahead of them. The sky was the limit. This went double for his own kids and grandkids. ● I found his fundamental trust in me to be especially helpful when I faced challenging times and had lost faith in myself. He would patiently help me see things from a different perspective, find the opportunity within the rubble, get myself back on my feet and once again move ahead The Master doesn’t talk, he acts. ● Mike never preached or thrust his views on others. He just lived his beliefs for all to see. ● He was the personification of a great role model. A gentle and humble man with a ready smile. He worked hard but took time out to reflect and enjoy life. He ate healthily and exercised regularly. He had a long-standing and loving marriage. He was forever curious and willing to learn. He was always ready to help anyone. ● He was a true action man When his work is done, the people say, “Amazing: we did it all by ourselves!” ● Mike was a great believer in nurture and over nature. He believed that if you put someone into the right environment then they will flourish. So that what he tried to provide for anyone under his care, be they family members or work colleagues ● And when they succeeded he praised their effort, perseverance and talent, without seeking to take any credit for himself ● However, the reality is that, whoever I am and whatever I have achieved is all thanks to the love, encouragement and support that I have received from Mike and Heather