Potential

The Sforno (22:27) notes that one may not sacrifice an animal that has a blemish even if its worth more than the complete animal that one will bring in its stead.  Why is something which is whole better than what’s incomplete if the incomplete animal is worth more?  The lesson is that everything is judged based upon its potential.  An animal which is complete has met its potential and is desired for a korban.  On the other hand, an animal which is incomplete even though its worth more the blemish represents the lack of reaching potential.  Hashem wants us to reach our heights.  That isn’t measure by the standards of others.  Even if someone else may be greater, if he hasn’t reached his potential, the one who has succeeded to the utmost is desired more.

The Sfas Emes writes in a letter that one who can only learn 2 hours a day and does is greater that one who can learn 12 hours but only learns 10.  One person reached his potential and the other didn't.