I grew up watching Superman in black and white. Although he had unlimited powers, George Reeves, who portrayed him, looked like a regular guy who was wearing a costume. Yet the bad guys could not match his herculean strength nor his dedication to fight against evil and for the good. Lois Lane loved Superman and did not know that she worked alongside him at the Daily Planet Newspaper in the guise of Clark Kent. Clark was an understated reporter, and I wondered why he was not recognized as Kent. Are glasses really that effective a disguise? Superman was not the chisled abdomen, hard as a rock superhero that is portrayed today. He looked like he had a bit of middle-aged fat.

We search for our Superman. Someone who vanquished our foes and protects our honor. Mighty Mouse was another television show of my youth. ‘Here I come to save the day,’ was the theme song. Most macho leaders do not attempt to identify with Mighty Mouse. I have seen glimpses of Might Mouse in many people. Many of us go unnoticed and are underappreciated. Yet we rise to the occasion. Brave people fight for ethics and to protect the voiceless with no thought of recognition. In the face of public humiliation, Mighty Mouse saves the day.

Political leaders tell us that they are the incarnation of Superman. They were sent to Earth to do what no man can do. Their deeds are done in darkness, and their self-congratulatory praise is in the light of the television cameras. The more vocal and laudatory praise these self-appointed Supermen receive, the more manic their actions. Ethics and the care for the poor among us is Kryptonite to them. Narcissism is the credo they live by.

Supergirl is a hero to me. Neva J raised me without a father. Strong women inspire me. It seems Supergirl is an afterthought in the Superhero Universe, but she is paramount in mine. Women are the unseen and unheard wonder of our lives. The women I know are stronger than Superman or Mighty Mouse, and they do it without fanfare or recognition. When men grow tired and weak from the struggle, women are just getting started. Most of my inspiration for leadership has come from strong women.

A self-promoting saviour is often a conman. When a leader is compelled to tell you daily of their strength and genius, you can be sure that neither is in their wheelhouse. A leader who seeks constant affirmation is troubled and dangerous. An unsettled mind and a wicked heart are not Superman.