To stand for elections is the means to be a politician, in standing for principle however is the means in which one is called a leader.
leadership
Just as a child clings to his parent, it, in fear of the night that dare engulf it, so to will our democracy will cling to education and the educated against the encroaching darkness of hate. For it is the open door of a school that leads to open door of the polling booth. It is imperative that we understand that by empowering the parent, we empower the child.
Leadership does not begin with people or things, making them do your bidding, alternatively it begins within oneself. For what man would be able to lead others, if he himself fails lead a good life?