About this quote

Power can be small and symbolic. A simple object or title can set who makes decisions and who follows them. Notice the tokens around you — badges, armbands, heirlooms — and ask whether they help people act responsibly or let a few hide behind status. Pick one token you see this week and decide how it should be used.

When to use it

• At the team meeting when you hand over the new lead badge, you grin and say, 'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,' to remind them a title comes with weight.
• When Grandpa passes the old watch to your cousin, you whisper, 'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,' to point out that the gift carries family duties.
• Before the match the coach taps the captain's armband on the table and jokes, 'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,' to warn that the armband brings responsibility, not just bragging rights.
• While finalizing inheritance paperwork with a client, the advisor murmurs, 'Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,' to note that money given without rules can cause trouble.