September 1, 2026

Be the Bigger Person

Lincoln’s response to a humiliating snub from General George McClellan offers a powerful lesson in restraint. Great leaders resist the urge to trade insults, score points, or have the last word. They listen, control their reactions, lower the temperature, and keep the larger goal in focus. Being the bigger person is difficult, but it is often where true leadership is revealed.

November 13th, 1861, is an important date. Not because a battle was won or lost, but due to the fact a President got snubbed. Shockingly, the person who showed great disrespect was not immediately handled.

Abraham Lincoln was president. The Civil War was roaring. General George McClellan commanded the Union army.

Lincoln and William Seward, Secretary of State, made an unannounced visit to the General’s home on November 13th, 1861. McClellan was at a wedding. Lincoln and Seward were told that the General would arrive shortly, and they were free to relax in the hall until his arrival.

McClellan did not like Lincoln. He didn’t appreciate being pushed by the President to attack and make advancements on the southern army. The President was frustrated with the General’s performance and wanted nothing short of victory.

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