Chapter 359
The Cone of Command
Only the expression of the will of the Deity, not dependent on time, can relate to a whole series of events occurring over a period of years or centuries, and only the Deity, independent of everything, can by His sole will determine the direction of humanity’s movement; but man acts in time and himself takes part in what occurs. Reinstating the first condition omitted, that of time, we see that no command can be executed without some preceding order having been given rendering the execution of the last command possible. No command ever appears spontaneously, or itself covers a whole…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Pyramid
Draw the organizational pyramid for your workplace, family, or any group you belong to. Put yourself on the pyramid and identify who gives you orders and who follows your directions. Then trace one recent decision or command from the top down to see where it succeeded or failed and why.
Consider:
- •Notice how information changes as it moves up and down the pyramid
- •Identify where the biggest gaps exist between command and reality
- •Consider how your position affects what you see and don't see
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you received an order or request that seemed impossible. How did you handle it? Looking back, what was the disconnect between the person giving the command and the reality you faced?
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