“I believe that the world is so much better off for his having lived in it,” wrote Booker T. Washington in his autobiography Up From Slavery about George Washington Carver.
“The one who guards a fig tree will eat its fruit,
and whoever protects their master will be honored.” — Proverbs 27:18
In 1896, George Washington Carver, a former slave, was invited by Booker T. Washington to join Tuskegee Institute as the head of the agricultural department. Carver was excited with the opportunity to make a real impact on students’ lives. He fully embraced Washington’s vision of empowering African Americans through education, self-reliance, and his work directly improved the lives of countless families.
Though Carver received many lucrative offers to leave Tuskegee, his loyalty to Washington and his leadership never wavered. He once told Washington, “The only way I can pay back for all you have done for me is by helping the institution which you have so successfully built.”
His dedication and commitment to this vision earned him widespread recognition.
Carver understood and believed in Washington’s mission. He wanted to spend his life making a meaningful impact on African American families, and he worked tirelessly under Washington’s leadership to achieve that goal. He loved his work so much that he never left Tuskegee Institute—even though he certainly could have.
What Vision Drives You?
Do you agree with your company’s vision? If not, what cause or mission delights you? Are you passionate about education, world hunger, or fighting human trafficking?
Maybe you want to help businesses run more efficiently, design beautiful spaces, or keep people safe. The best way to find out is to try things. See what thrills you, what fuels your passion, and then chase after that.
Start with small steps. Focus on where you want to make the biggest impact. For example, if you’re considering a career in education, set a goal like: I will volunteer at my local elementary school for six months to see if teaching is the right path for me.
It usually takes me about six months to decide if I want to stay in a field long-term. If you find that something isn’t for you after a month, that’s okay—you can move on!
Whatever path you choose, work diligently toward your goal every day. Stick with it, or adjust as needed, and you will eventually reap the rewards of your hard work.
Carver was honored for his loyalty to his mentor. Likewise, when we show dedication to our bosses, leaders, and those in authority, we earn the respect of others. People will notice that there’s something different about us.
Where Do You Want to Make an Impact?
- What vision or cause excites you the most?
- Have you ever been deeply loyal to a leader, mentor, or organization? Why?
- What steps can you take to align with a vision you believe in?
- How can you show dedication and faithfulness in your work?
For more on Inspiration Like Honey click here or Diligent Dreamer click here.
Sources and References:
“Proverbs 27:18.” Bible Gateway, New International Version, www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2027%3A18&version=NIV.
Washington, Booker T. Up From Slavery. Documenting the American South, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, https://docsouth.unc.edu/fpn/washington/washing.html
“The Man Who Talks With the Flowers.” Google Books, www.google.com/books/edition/The_Man_Who_Talks_With_the_Flowers_The_I/ABp5CgAAQBAJ.
“Archives.” Tuskegee University Libraries, www.tuskegee.edu/libraries/archives.