Many leaders are stopped in their tracks when unintended consequences, literally and figuratively, “hit them in the face.” Here’s one of the most telling in history. One of our founding fathers, who is mostly forgotten, was known as the most popular man of his day. He spoke to the biggest crowd recorded at the time – 80,000 in Hyde Park. He befriended Benjamin Franklin even though their worldviews were miles apart. He gave his life toward the aim of his opus and was wildly successful. He started orphanages in Georgia and was known as one of the fathers of a radical group that changed the world.
He was also beaten for this same work and left for dead. He had parts of dead cats and dogs thrown at him during his speeches. He was egged and plastered with rotten food of all types. His best friend turned on him when he was overseas. He was banned from places that had previously welcomed him. He was threatened till he died an early death brought on by fatigue from 13 ocean crossings and 18,000 “field” based sermons.
His name was George Whitefield and his life is chronicled very well in the book titled, Forgotten Founding Father, by Stephen Mansfield. George was a man of great work and great pain.
As you discover, cultivate, and live your strong CORE on your Builder’s Journey toward your opus, do not miss this lesson, by George. Your work will not always be received as intended. Regardless your position, popularity, or prominence, you too will struggle. You will misunderstood. Oftentimes, your accomplishments will be accompanied by unintended consequence – some will really hurt too. You will be loved and HATED in your pursuit of great work.
Do NOT let unintended consequences stop you and your great work. Keep going and remember that these obstacles are simply the price builder’s pay for trying to do something GREAT.
Carry on, by George. Carry on…
BUILT TO LEAD 