Leadership Artifact Reflection

Mitchell Catalano

Seattle University
 Ho capito che sono i piccolo gesti della gente commune che combattono loscuritapiccoli

gesti di gentilezza ed amore

Tattooed onto my body, this quote translates into English as, I have found its the small

acts of ordinary folk which keeps the darkness at baysmall acts of kindness and love. I first

heard this quote in a film called the Hobbit, and then discovered its origins in the written work of

one of my favorite writers, J.R.R Tolkein. Upon hearing it, I immediately recognized its

pertinence to the way in which I live my life and fulfilled my personal values. I decided to design

an artistic expression of this quote incorporating cultural and experiential variables that were

equally important to who I am and who I will continue to be.

The quote is reflective of a deeper personal philosophy signifying the pull between fear

and love in our lives. It is a deeply seeded belief of mine that we as people make decisions in

every respect of our lives out of choices inspired by either love or fear. Each of these choices

serves its purpose in guiding us, however, the more choices we make inspired by some means of

love, the more sustainable and fulfilling our life will be. The quote now tattooed to my body

provides a poetic reminder of this spiritual belief, and I am grateful to have it with me always.

Whether in the light or dark times if my life, I can always look down to recall what it is that

drives me and keeps me spiritually whole and healthy.

Designing the quote in Italian and choosing it deliberately from the writings of Tolkein

also reminds me of my culture and my passion for the written word and learning. Combined,

these details are a full-scale reminder of who I am. Reminding who I am, the quote also inspires

me to make leadership decision that are similarly inspired by this philosophy. Focusing

particularly on the ordinary folk pillar, I lead as a servant for others, recognizing that building

community in harmony with them is how I will sustain as a leader both now and for the future.