“A Prophet Who Asks for Counsel” | Leader to Leader Episode 12

A few years ago I was in my office about 6:30 A.M. I am mentioning that so you will know I was there early—it takes some of us a little longer. My phone rang, and as I answered it, I recognized that special voice that said, “Marvin.”

I replied, “Yes, President Kimball.” He said, “Could I come up and see you?” His office is on the first floor, and mine is on the third. (That is the only time I am ever higher than he is.) My reply was, “President Kimball, if you want to see me, I will be right down.” He then responded with, “Would you do that?” He did not exhibit any authority. There was no feeling of “Do you know who this is?” or “You’d better come.” He courteously asked, “Could I come up and see you?” When I told him I would be right down, his voice reflected gratitude as he said, “Will you do that?” I went to his office in a hurry. After we shook hands, he handed me a letter and said, “How would you answer this?” I read it quickly and said, “President Kimball, you might want to consider this approach,” and told him what I thought.

“I agree,” he said. “That is my thinking also.” He shook my hand, and I was on my way, reflecting about a prophet who asks for counsel and puts himself above no man.