Sometimes it is necessary to do things that are wrong in order to achieve an important goal...

“Don’t be afraid to give up the good for the great”- Steve Prefontaine.

Back in 1972 a legend was born to the media. Steve Prefontaine was an Olympic 3000m runner who ran for the U.S.A team and before that for the University of Oregon. He was incredible to watch. He would push himself harder and during certain races gamble with whatever race he was in. Calculate speed to win just at the correct moment every time. Steve proved to many that “sometimes it is necessary to do things you know are wrong in order to achieve an important goal”.  

When setting a goal I believe that you don’t see the bad. All that you picture in your mind is the wonderful outcome at the end. But for many this is not the case. To get to your goal it requires work and dedication. Sometimes this can lead to disappointments along the way. Putting down others or yourself is very common in these types of situations. They always have been. Sometimes choosing to hurt other’s happens involuntarily, but regardless sometimes it is necessary to achieve the impossible.  

Throughout history there are records of this happening. Back in 63 B.C.E during Julius Caesars reign on the Roman Empire he achieved many things. Introduced the sewer system, expanded the territory and tried to bring back the room he loved. But with these great accomplishments came a price. Rome started building a steady debt, and many were lost in the wars fought. This is not the only time though. During world war two Canada fought alongside Britain and the United states to help bring peace and end the atrocities that were taking place in Germany. Many died for this cause or developed various diseases. A more current example is the fight to stop child labour. Many invade these jail like factories to rescue the children and bring them to safety. On these raids though it is very common for people to get lost, hurt, or even arrested.  

In all of these instances passion has been the driving force behind these actions. Passion to make the world a better place or even passion for a goal or something you want to obtain physically. Since this is such a common emotion these acts are common amongst all age groups. The damage made on the course to these victories doesn’t always have to be physical. It can also be done verbally or psychologically.

When taking the gamble to hurt or do something wrong to achieve something great there is always the possibility that it might not turn out the way you thought it would. Rome over through Caesar because of his conquests. Jealousy and pride can come in the way and make matters worse.  When taking these risks (whether of being conscious about it or not) you are opening up to millions of possibilities, good and bad. This means that knowing possible outcomes and weighing options out first is always a good way to start to determine if people would profit from the occurrence in the end.

Some are willing to take the risk and be non-conformists willingly, while for others it happens by accident. Regardless of the situation there are only to outcomes, good and bad. With this being a fifty, fifty chance would you be willing to take the risk?