First and Always

It’s a great time to consider George Washington as a leader. He was truly a remarkable man and his sacrifices enriched his beloved country and humankind. Among the Founding Fathers of America, George Washington holds a place unique and immortal - first and always. As Thomas Jefferson wrote, "Never did nature and fortune combine more perfectly to make a man great."

Do you think he’d recognize us today? With so many citizens bent on the destruction of our historic emblems, symbols, monuments, and society, one wonders what he would think of us today.

The culture of his day was very different, of course. Compared to our momentary culture shift, his was the Age of Reason. Self-improvement, manners, reasoning and nationalism adopted from early childhood was desirable, no artificial intelligence or bemoaning on the scene. The country was young and vibrant, with much to be done, explored and grown. As a citizen, he jealously guarded the title, and as a surveyor he knew his land and the people on it. There was a vision for what the future could be. He pushed boundaries. He expected positive results.

Washington was insightful and politically astute leading both military and republic.?He delegated but carefully watched results. Winning war strategies and tactics came from knowing himself, his own people and his enemy.?(The ancient Sun Tzu way.)?Today we have more news and data than anyone can handle but don’t know who lives next door much less the enemy.?

Time and time again, in an almost uncanny way, George Washington proved to be the right man in the right place at the right time. He inspired his men with his vision, hope and willingness to sacrifice (Abigail Adams on Washington's physical and handsome features would write that he was cut from "majestic fabric.") Legend tells us he had a personal way with all. He trained constantly and persuaded his men to stay and fight long after their contracts. It is an understatement to say that he went to great lengths to care for his men suffering the worst battle conditions. Indeed, all leaders should read and re-read about the utter despair and daily shortcomings surrounding Washington's army. You'll quickly see that your grievances, as authentic as you may think they are, are moot compared to his. Despite these horrible circumstances, of which a good portion of them lay at the feet of Congress, he never gave in. He prayed, he implored - he led. In victory, grateful countrymen would have made him king, but he believed in the republic.?

Pursuit of happiness meant opportunity not gratification.?He took pleasure in the effort and pride in the accomplishment.?A servant leader, he sure did more with less.?He valued discipline, learning and continuous improvement. Better generals there were, better presidents, perhaps.?

?As was once said, he did win the only war that counted. So, thank you, General Washington. We are still free to think and act as we please - and govern as a free nation.