In 1884 a young American died on a visit to Europe. His grieving parents began to think of establishing a living memorial in his memory. They decided to try something in the field of education, a memorial that would go on year after year helping to educate young people.
They arranged an appointment with Charles Elliot, president of Harvard, who was annoyed to have his time taken by two such plain and unpretentious people. Impatiently, he inquired what he could do for them. They apologized for taking up his valuable time, and explained that they wanted to establish a memorial in their son’s name. The haughty man suggested, in a crisp manner, that perhaps they had in mind a scholarship.
The mother, in a soft and patient voice, said that they were thinking of something more substantial, perhaps a new building on the Harvard campus. With a patronizing air, Elliot explained that she was suggesting something that will take a great deal of money. Looking them up and down, he made it quite clear that he believed they were obviously out of their league here.
After a pause, the gentle woman slowly rose from her chair and asked her host if he could tell them what his entire university was worth. With n imperious lift of his chin, he responded that was worth several million dollars. The woman turned to her husband and said, “Come dear, I have an idea.” And they left.
The following year, President Elliot learned that his plain, unpretentious visitors had provided twenty-six million dollars for a memorial to their son. It is known as Leland Stanford, Jr. University.
Assume the best of people. It not only places them in a better light but also gives you clearer vision.
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