John S. Gordon - Business and Personal Coach

"You have the greatness and the power.  I just help you turn on the switch."

MARVELOUS MONDAYS

 

February 17, 2014 - Issue  265 

 

Presidents Day

The Patriots vs. The British Empire

(David vs. Goliath)

 

This is a third in a series on battling the Giants in our lives.  

 
Dear ,

 

Welcome to Issue 265.  The mission of "Marvelous Mondays" is to offer an inspirational thought, a practical exercise, some humor, or a simple tip to jump-start your week and to enhance your life, business, outlook or relationships. 

 

Please feel free to forward "Marvelous Mondays" to others who will enjoy it.   

Did you miss a previous issue?  Click here to view an Archive.   

 

 

THE BRITISH EMPIRE (GOLIATH OF 1775)

As we celebrate Presidents' Day we realize there would be no President Lincoln or Washington without the American Revolution, so let's turn to 1775. 

 

In 1775 the British Empire was vast and controlled its colonial subjects throughout the world by its military might. It was a feared empire and considered invincible.  

How could this huge and powerful empire (a 1775 "Goliath") be bothered by these rebels in this fledgling part of the world called America. How could this "Goliath" take serious any skirmish with these "wannabe soldiers". The British fully expected this to be a skirmish which would turn into a swift rout  and put a quick and decisive end to this rebellion. The British had good reason to believe this. In truth our colonial soldiers were largely a collection of teenage farm boys who were not only under-aged but under experienced, under clothed, under equipped, under armed, and under trained. And they were greatly outnumbered! They were truly the "Davids".  

 

THE DAVID FACTOR - THE UNDERCOVER UNDERDOGS

Oh, but these underdogs had a "David" strategy. Instead of facing off against the British in a traditional fight, they often used the surprise and stealth of guerrilla warfare by sniping at the British with their own personal guns as they hid behind trees, fences, stonewalls, and anything else that would cover them. They were literally the undercover underdogs. And it worked, much to the shock, frustration, and embarrassment of the British Empire. And so it is that our successful revolution and our very freedom today is due in large part to the unconventional David approach of our colonial ancestors. 

 

EXERCISE

This week I invite you to continue your reflection on any Goliaths in your life or in the lives of others. Look at a possible "David" approach in any of these or other situations:

 

  • Lack of financial or other resources 
  • Health Issues
  • Physical appearance 
  • Age
  • Time limitations
  • Lack of experience or knowledge or skills
  • Lack of family support
  • Other________________.
  1. What "David" approach can you use for yourself or to reach out to others? 

 

Please share your reflection with me. If I can be of any assistance, please let me know and I am available to listen. 

 


 

 

 

"By the rude bridge that arched the flood,
Their flag to April's breeze unfurled,
Here once the embattled farmers stood,
And fired the shot heard round the world.

The foe long since in silence slept;
Alike the conqueror silent sleeps;
And Time the ruined bridge has swept
Down the dark stream which seaward creeps.

On this green bank, by this soft stream,
We set to-day a votive stone;
That memory may their deed redeem,
When, like our sires, our sons are gone.

Spirit, that made those heroes dare
To die, and leave their children free,
Bid Time and Nature gently spare
The shaft we raise to them and thee."

 

 

By Ralph Waldo Emerson

American Philosopher and Poet

[The above poem is referred to as the "Concord Hymn" and was sung on July 4th 1837 at the ceremony to pay tribute to the American Minute Men for their resistance to the British forces at Concord Massachusetts on April 19th 1775]

 

The phrase "shot heard round the world" is internationally acclaimed and known for our American revolution.   


JOHN'S BIO
John has owned several businesses and is an attorney who has practiced in the business and estate  areas.  In addition, he coaches business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, professionals, speech makers and presenters.  He also coaches persons who are determined to accelerate their careers and leadership skills or who are considering a career move or retirement.  John uses coaching as a tool in his leadership and business results based consulting.  He is also a life coach.

                   **John is currently accepting a few new coaching clients.**