Feature: Wings of Trust

By Timothy A. Edward

As I stepped into the office of a dear friend this week, my eyes were drawn to a framed quote on the wall:

“A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking, because her trust is not on the branch but on her own wings.”

This simple yet profound statement stirred something deep within me. It reminded me of the kind of champions we need in the business world - individuals who trust in their own strength, who rise above uncertainty, and who carry values that uplift not just themselves, but entire communities.

Integrity and Stewardship

In today’s business landscape, we need men and women who are self-reliant and grounded in stewardship, integrity, humility, and excellence. These are people unafraid to partner with the poor, the marginalised, and the forgotten. They value people and respond to the needs of communities - not just profits.

While brand image and organisational impact are vital, the trust and confidence employees have in their own and collective competence is equally important. That is why it is essential for employees to internalise the vision, mission, and core values of their organisation. The more closely they identify with these principles, the more effective they become as ambassadors of their companies.

Called to Be Salt and Light

From birth to death, our lives are framed by joy and sorrow. In between, we are called to be the salt and light of the world. Salt enhances flavour and preserves; light brings radiance and lifts the human spirit.

We eagerly await the dawn, and though poets have personified the sun as shy, it is this very light that sustains life, warms the earth, and reveals truth. A little salt and a little light can transform everything - and so it is with us.

Businesses and chambers must embrace this calling. It is heartening to witness those who uplift needy communities while still earning profits. This requires innovation - meeting business goals while also addressing the needs of society.

Pivotal Moment

Sri Lanka now stands at a pivotal moment. A new government has risen, powered by the unity and boldness of millions of ordinary citizens. The responsibility now lies with this leadership to root out corruption, heal racial divides, repeal unjust laws, and restore the nation.

Investment in infrastructure is critical. Only then can businesses thrive and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

Revival from the North

History shows that revival often begins in the north - and Sri Lanka is no exception. Businesses and chambers in the north must be supported to rebuild the nation.

The northern region of Sri Lanka is abundant in natural resources, featuring world-renowned beaches and fertile lands that support the cultivation of a diverse range of crops. These include traditional agricultural staples such as chili, onion, tobacco, potato, banana, mango, grapes, jackfruit, palmyra, coconut and certain types of rice, as well as non-traditional crops like dragon fruit, sea cucumber, beetroot, carrot, cinnamon, pineapple, cashew, coffee, and pomegranate. Northern entrepreneurs are poised to elevate Sri Lanka onto the global stage. In many ways, the key to our economic revival lies quietly embedded in the north.

Infrastructure for Empowerment

It is the duty of chambers, businesses, lawmakers, and provincial authorities to provide the infrastructure needed for expansion. For instance, the interior roads in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu must be improved urgently. This will allow smallholder farmers to transport their produce safely to collection points, where they can earn fair prices for their hard labor.

The bird on the branch teaches us a timeless lesson - trust in your wings. As individuals, businesses, and communities, we must rise with courage, integrity, and compassion. Let us be the salt that preserves and the light that uplifts. In doing so, we not only build successful enterprises but also shape a nation that thrives in unity and purpose.

Let us remember the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what is necessary; then do what is possible; and suddenly you will be doing the impossible.”