?? Finding Inspiration in Lorca for Leadership ??
Maria Elena (Elena) Rodriguez Hernandez
Water Engineering ?? Specialist | 27+ Years in Complex Turbomachinery & Hydraulic Project Mastery | 2022 STEM/STEAM Leadership Honoree ?? | Advocate for Climate Action & Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?? | WaterPositive
Today, I want to share a very personal reflection inspired by one of my favorite poems by Federico García Lorca: "Prendimiento de Anto?ito el Camborio en el camino de Sevilla". This poem has always moved me deeply, and I believe it offers valuable lessons for work and leadership, especially when we talk about being authentic and resilient.
In the poem, Lorca tells the story of Anto?ito Torres Heredia, who, true to his essence and gypsy heritage, is unjustly detained on his way to Seville. The image Lorca paints of Anto?ito has always struck me: it’s a reflection of the constant struggle between our identity, the adversities, and the prejudices we face. Every time I read it, I find a new way to relate it to life and leadership.
Here are some of my personal reflections on leadership that this poem inspires:
?? 1. Identity and Courage
Anto?ito reminds us of the importance of always being ourselves, of staying true to our values, even when things get tough. To me, a good leader is one who has the courage to be authentic, because authenticity inspires others and shows them that acting with integrity should always come first.
?? 2. Resilience in the Face of Injustice
In the poem, Anto?ito is unjustly detained. We’ve all had moments in life when we feel that things aren’t fair. But I believe resilience is about how we react to those moments. As leaders, our role is to stay calm, face difficulties with bravery, and help our team find a way to move forward, even when the environment is unfavorable.
?? 3. Recognizing Potential
There’s a moment when the "legitimate Camborios" question whether Anto?ito is worthy to be one of them. This reminds me how crucial it is, as leaders, to see the potential in people that others may overlook. Sometimes talent isn’t evident at first glance, but recognizing and nurturing it is what makes teams grow and shine.
?? 4. The Weight of Tradition
When Lorca talks about the "old knives shivering under the dust," I think about how, many times in work, we face traditions or ways of doing things that no longer serve us. Being a leader also means knowing when to honor traditions and when to challenge them to move forward, always looking for the best way to do things.
? 5. The Impact of Simple Acts
One of my favorite images from the poem is when Anto?ito throws lemons into the water "until it turned to gold." It’s a simple act but full of meaning. It reminds me that in leadership, the small gestures matter. Every word of support, every act of recognition has an impact and can transform not only a person’s mood but that of an entire team.
Lorca’s always invites me to embrace courage, authenticity, and to lead from a genuine connection with our identity and others. Being a leader is not just about achieving results; it’s about inspiring, accompanying, and being a real support, especially during the toughest moments.
How do you embrace your own identity and resilience in your daily leadership? ????
I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections.
#Leadership #Inspiration #FedericoGarcíaLorca #RomanceroGitano #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #AuthenticLeadership
PS.- If you haven't done so yet, I encourage you to explore the poetry of Federico García Lorca. His words have the power to inspire and move us in a truly unique way.
Prendimiento de Anto?ito el Camborio en el camino de Sevilla (De "Romancero gitano", 1928)
Director Leadership Development @ Beacon | People Development, Talent Strategy
2 周Lorca really hits hard on authenticity. It’s all about being real to inspire others, right?