There Are No Shortcuts

Boyle Park Media opens with a feature, followed by glimpses into faith, family, and thought.

Feature

Bev and I are blessed to count Devon & Pearlene Clunis as friends. They are both published authors and Devon is recognized as the first Black Police Chief in Canada. We are delighted that Devon has given his blessing for us to publish his monthly newsletter. Here is Issue #06.

🕊️ Opening Reflection Sometimes, the most significant growth in our lives isn’t marked by a sudden change in direction, but by the quiet, steady commitment to the path we are on. Just as finding purpose can require courage, embracing the journey of leadership requires profound patience and perseverance.

This newsletter is inspired by my recent time with a group of current Chiefs of Police and aspiring police leaders, a conversation that reaffirmed a simple but vital truth.

The Path of Patient and Persevered Growth We live in a microwave mentality world that often seeks quick fixes and rapid success. Yet, when it comes to leadership, there are no shortcuts. Authentic leadership isn’t a skill we acquire overnight; it can’t be bought or fast-tracked. It is developed and proven over time. Recently, I had the honour of participating in a leadership development course with several current Chiefs of Police. We spoke at length about a concerning gap: we frequently don’t invest the time to train and develop people, but we expect leaders to respond effectively during a crisis. How’s that been working? The truth is, it doesn’t. Leadership development takes time. We must be intentional and start early. It is no different than building a retirement pension—that security didn’t appear overnight. Why would we expect the complex art of leading people to require any less of an investment?

Forged in the Everyday I have learned that leaders are seldom created in a single, high-profile moment. What those moments do is reveal the character and maturity that has been built, step by step, in the background. This foundation is laid when you do the small things with excellence, when you seek and receive feedback, when you mentor a subordinate, take the hit for the team, give credit where it’s due, and realize that being the boss is not about authority, but about serving. That depth of character takes patience and perseverance. What stood out to me was that these future leaders were less concerned with technical skills. It was a powerful reminder that no matter where we find ourselves in leadership, first and foremost, we are all in the people business. That principle has never failed me.

Your “We Are ONE” Challenge This week, I encourage you to reflect on your own development, whether you are shaping your own path or guiding others:
✅ Are you allowing yourself the patience and perseverance required for authentic growth, or are you pressured by the world’s demand for quick results?
✅ Reflect on a leader who impacted you. What small, consistent qualities did they demonstrate that built your trust?
✅ What is one intentional step you can take this week to invest in the long-term development of your own leadership or that of someone on your team? Remember, stepping into leadership isn’t just about a change in title. It’s about a commitment to the slow, purposeful work of becoming a person of character whom others will willingly follow.

Final Thought Authentic leadership is not a destination you arrive at, but a path you walk each day through your actions, your service, and your commitment to people. Don’t rush the process. The most enduring influence is always built slowly, with intention. We love sharing other voices in this space. Last issue, I shared my story of finding a new lane. If you have a story about a mentor whose patient guidance made a difference in your life, we’d love to hear from you for a future edition.

Wishing you patience and purpose on your journey, 🙏
Devon

Boyle Park Editorial Policy: “We don’t necessarily agree with what you say, but we will defend to the death your right to say it.” (Evelyn Beatrice Hall, 1906)