The first edition of this book was dedicated to Pema Chödrön, the Buddhist teacher who emphasizes that peace and resilience are found by facing and embracing life exactly as it is. Margaret Wheatley applies this principle to the reality of a civilization she views as declining towards collapse.

Wheatley advocates for a new form of leadership centered on creating "islands of sanity" within local spheres of influence. She describes these leaders as "Warriors for the Human Spirit"—individuals who prioritize service over self and strive to evoke generosity, creativity, and kindness in others.

The book urges leaders at all levels to confront the realities they face, take responsibility for fostering positive change, and cultivate pockets of stability in an era marked by decadence, narcissism, materialism, and corruption. Despite the grim global outlook she portrays, Wheatley offers hope by highlighting the power of local action and personal transformation, encouraging leaders to focus on the change possible within their immediate influence, even as larger systems falter.

“A Warrior for the Human Spirit is a decent human being who aspires to be of service in an indecent, inhumane time.” ― Margaret Wheatley

BOOK: WHO DO WE CHOOSE TO BE? Facing Reality | Claiming Leadership | Restoring Sanity, 2nd Edition