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"A Message to Garcia" by Elbert Hubbard is a brief but impactful essay that extols the virtues of initiative, resourcefulness, and the ability to carry out a task with unwavering dedication. Published in 1899, the essay takes the form of a tribute to Lieutenant Andrew S. Rowan, an American officer during the Spanish-American War. Rowan was given a seemingly impossible mission – to deliver a message from President William McKinley to General Calixto García, a leader of the Cuban insurgents fighting against Spanish forces. The essay focuses on the admirable qualities exhibited by Rowan in fulfilling this mission, portraying him as the epitome of efficiency and diligence.One of the central themes of "A Message to Garcia" is the importance of individual responsibility and the ability to take initiative. Hubbard commends Rowan for not seeking excuses or questioning the feasibility of the task assigned to him. Instead, Rowan displays a proactive and can-do attitude, accepting the mission without hesitation. Hubbard emphasizes this point by contrasting Rowan's readiness to take on the challenge with the prevalent lack of initiative in contemporary society. The essay suggests that the world needs more individuals who possess the spirit of initiative, capable of taking on tasks without waiting for explicit instructions or guarantees of success.The narrative unfolds as a conversation between Hubbard and an unnamed officer, who expresses doubts about finding someone capable of delivering the message to García. This skepticism becomes a foil for Hubbard's argument, allowing him to highlight the rarity and value of individuals like Rowan. The essay serves as a call to action, urging readers to reflect on their own attitudes towards work and responsibility. Hubbard's message is clear: the world needs more individuals who are willing to go the extra mile, take on challenges without complaint, and execute tasks with precision and dedication.The concept of loyalty also plays a significant role in Hubbard's essay. Rowan's unwavering commitment to delivering the message, even at the risk of his own life, is portrayed as the embodiment of true loyalty. This loyalty is not just to a superior officer or a political leader, but to a sense of duty and the broader ideals of patriotism. Hubbard extols the virtue of loyalty as a quality that is increasingly rare and valuable in a world where people are easily swayed by personal interests or external influences.The essay's title, "A Message to Garcia," serves as a metaphor for the broader theme of effective communication and the ability to execute tasks without unnecessary complications. The message itself is symbolic, representing any task or responsibility that needs to be fulfilled. Rowan's direct and efficient approach to delivering the message becomes a model for effective communication and task execution. Hubbard suggests that the ability to understand and carry out a mission without excessive guidance or supervision is a mark of true competence.While "A Message to Garcia" has been praised for its motivational and inspirational tone, it has also faced criticism for promoting a rigid and unquestioning obedience to authority. Some argue that the essay downplays the importance of critical thinking and independent judgment. However, Hubbard's primary focus seems to be on promoting a proactive and responsible mindset, rather than advocating blind obedience.In conclusion, Elbert Hubbard's "A Message to Garcia" is a timeless essay that champions the virtues of initiative, loyalty, and efficient execution of tasks. Through the narrative of Lieutenant Rowan's mission, Hubbard encourages readers to reflect on their own attitudes towards responsibility and to strive for a more proactive and dedicated approach to their work. The essay remains a compelling call to action, challenging individuals to embrace the qualities that lead to success in any endeavor.