By Wayne Weiner, D.Ed.
“Handle with care” could have been the motto of King Charles VI of France. By the late 14th century, the king had become convinced he was made entirely of glass. Not metaphorically—literally glass. He feared that a bump, a touch, or even a sudden movement might cause him to shatter into pieces. To protect himself, he wore thick, padded clothing and had attendants follow him around to prevent accidents.
Imagine being a courtier in his presence. Your king’s every request seemed grounded in danger, yet you couldn’t question it. Orders had to be obeyed, no matter how unusual. For Charles VI, the fear of breaking dictated every action in the palace.
Why Leaders Give Strange Orders
Leaders are human. They get stressed, overwhelmed, or—sometimes—detached from reality. When a person in authority starts giving bizarre requests, it’s often less about logic and more about perception, fear, or a need for control. King Charles VI wasn’t malicious; he was deeply afraid. But for those around him, following such demands could be exhausting, confusing, or even risky.
The lesson is clear: if a request doesn’t make sense, pause. Ask yourself:
- Is this request grounded in fact, or in fear or habit?
- What are the possible consequences of following it blindly?
- How can I respond respectfully while maintaining integrity?
Sometimes, gently questioning or clarifying a strange order is not only appropriate—it’s necessary. Handling the request thoughtfully doesn’t mean disrespecting authority. It means protecting yourself and ensuring outcomes make sense.
Don’t Let Fear Dictate Your Actions
King Charles VI’s delusion led to isolation, confusion, and ultimately tragedy for his reign. Leaders—and everyone who supports them—need to distinguish between valid caution and irrational fear. If you encounter requests that seem outlandish or confusing, take a deep breath. Evaluate them carefully. Seek guidance. Document your reasoning. And above all, don’t let someone else’s fear make you “fragile.”
The next time a leader or manager gives instructions that seem puzzling or unnecessary, remember the King of Glass. Approach the situation with respect, but also with your own clarity and common sense.
For more stories of leadership, human behavior, and lessons from history, visit my site: https://drweinerinsights.
About the Author: Wayne Weiner, D.Ed., is an author, philosopher, and leadership consultant with over 40 years of experience guiding organizations and individuals toward practical wisdom and ethical decision-making.
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