by Bob Schmidt

Created on: June 24, 2008

Webster's dictionary defines charismatic as having some divinely inspired power, as to prophesy, performing miracles, etc. Using that classic definition, only a few would make the short list of charismatic people of influence today.

Within the United States, Reverend Billy Graham would certainly qualify by virtue of the hundreds of thousands who would attend his next speech, if and when it were given. The faithful of the Roman Catholic Church would accord the same designation to Pope Benedict without a doubt. The Greek basis of the root word charisma is lodged in divine inspiration, therefore, within religious groups one is most likely to find appropriate candidates.

Pop culture of today's world does not necessarily base charisma as anything divine in nature. For that reason, Barrack Obama may be defined as a charismatic person of influence today. His powers of oratory are practically unmatched within politics today. Just as the last Democrat to become president rode his personal charisma into office, Obama may just emulate Bill Clinton's success based upon charisma.

My personal choice for the most charismatic person of influence today would be: His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. The exiled leader of Tibet has inspired people worldwide with his philosophy based upon peacefulness. His influence is impossible to measure, and his inspiration cannot be denied. Nelson Mandela would certainly deserve a nod of approval as a charismatic person of influence as well.

Just as Adolph Hitler was a charismatic person of influence in his day, current-day bad boy Hugo Chavez, President of Venezuela, deserves a mention because of the influence he wields within some third-world countries. Like him or not, he has charisma to those who choose to follow his radical rhetoric. Charisma is not always a tool used for good works, as both gentlemen have demonstrated.

Television personalities, movie stars, political heavyweights, and religious leaders usually possess considerable amounts of charisma. That is what helps them achieve a following, which is needed for success in their fields. Speaking to their charismatic qualities is mostly a popularity contest, which serves little purpose within these comments.

It is worth noting that every community has charismatic people of influence. They may be teachers, preachers, politicians, and business people. Even you, and I could potentially be such a person. Divine inspiration, and leadership abilities are the two needed ingredients. That potential exists within every man, and is certainly worth developing in order to join a very exclusive group of admirable people.

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