Spielberg has Broccoli to Thank for Indiana

How an infamous vegetable was responsible for Raiders of the Lost Ark.

You made my day. May Allah richly bless you.

I received the above message from a fan of something I wrote on Quora six years ago. With 39,846 views and counting, my contributions show that potent ideas can resonate. And whatever is put on the internet never truly dies.

The question I answered on Quora relates an anecdote about Spielberg and 007.

REJECTION?

This was the question:

I got accepted by Harvard, MIT and Stanford but was rejected by University of Kansas. How do I get over it?

Kinda ridulous question, but my earnest answer follows:

A Gift From The Universe

Steven Spielberg was once denied the privilege of directing a James Bond movie, a franchise he had always wanted to helm. In his disappointment, he sought the counsel of his friend, George Lucas (the creator of Star Wars). George pitched him the story of what became Indiana Jones and suggested that Steven direct it.

And we all know how that story ended…

So offer gratitude for the acceptances and the rejections alike. And focus on the blessing in hand. Not the one you thought you should have received.

Take it as a gift from the universe: Rejection is God’s protection.

Feedback

That was that. Short and sweet. Hollywood-related. But it struck a chord:

The greatest answer I have read on Quora so far.

Such an inspiring thought. Such wise words.

I love your answer!!

Everyone needs to read your reply.

You said so much in just one sentence “rejection is god’s protection” that it is quite enough to helm an entire life .

Good thoughts to take away — thanks for the unexpected inspiration!

Such inspiring words, I will always remember this. Thank you!

Wow! Thank you for this wisdom. I felt crushed by rejection so many times, but now I understand the Universe was actually protecting me from horrible situations.

Your answer can only be penned from a wealth of undeniable knowledge and experience. It resonates in every aspect of life. God Bless and more grace to you.

This is truly wisdom displayed. The world needs people like you, Sir. Keep it up!

I love this and I will apply it to my life as well. Really loved your answer!

Champagne Problems

So the dilemma of our querent is an acceptance to Harvard despite a fervent and unrequited desire to matriculate to Kansas. This is what I call a Champagne Problem, which I expound in Hollywood Drive & Talk, a web series I hosted.

Now times have changed, but the champagne still sparkles. And champagne problems are the kind we’re lucky to have. Because when viewed through a lens brightly, the problem is revealed to not be a problem at all. But a blessing.

Which leads to the insight…

This simple notion means we can embrace our rejections and give thanks to the people and processes doing the rejecting. Because they not only save us from a less fulfilling path, but likely send us on a more profitable and adventurous one.

And that’s why Steven Spielberg (and the moviegoing public) has Broccoli to thank for Indiana Jones. Specifically, Albert R. Broccoli, the James Bond film producer.

Because “Cubby,” as he was known, simply would not allow Steven to get into the director’s chair to helm a 007 movie. Steven Spielberg. One of the most successful filmmakers in film history. For what reason, God only knows…

And that’s exactly my point. God knows. And that’s all we need to know.

I’m sure Indiana would agree.

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My book, How to Succeed on Purpose, is available to download here along with a potent meditation, Mantra for Abundance. All for $8.

*Quora’s mission is to share the world’s knowledge by posing questions and answering them.