On Inspiring Others to Greatness

Alex,

Although we are not often up to the task, those who are most worthy almost always feel unworthy.  This is one of my favorite things that George Washington said.  It is his speech to Congress on accepting command of the army.  Washington, by lack of experience was NOT up to the task.  He had to bring in help after he barely kept his army alive, knew nothing about military drills, and almost handed the country back to the Brits on a multitude of occasions.  The people who forged this country are remembered not because they were great but because they inspired others to be great.



Love u mostest!

Mom



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Esqr. that he had the order of the Congress to acq[ain]t him, that the Congress had by a unanimous vote made choice of him to be general and com[mander] in chief to take the supreme command of the forces raised and to be raised, in defence of American Liberty, and desired his acceptance of it. Whereupon Colonel Washington, standing in his place, spoke as follows:

"Mr. President,

"Tho' I am truly sensible of the high Honour done me, in this Appointment, yet I feel great distress, from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important Trust: However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.

"But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfavourable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered, by every Gentleman in the room, that I, this day, declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the Command I am honored with.

"As to pay, Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress, that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to have accepted this arduous employment, at the expence of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any proffit from it. I will keep an exact Account of my expences. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I desire."1

[Note 1: 1 This reply, in the writing of Edmund Pendleton, with a single line added by Washington, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 152, vol. I, folio 1.]

Upon motion Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to draught a commission and instructions for the general.


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