The next entry isn’t necessarily as exciting as some of the last, and not nearly so thought-provoking [yet]. And I almost considered skipping these few seemingly minor paragraphs, except that Hill included these introductions to the next chapter, the people in it, and the impact he had upon others in the interest of backing up what he says, and in clearing away any preconceived notions that perhaps he colored the story a little.
Take No Liberties
“Understand also that the relationship between these two men and the author is such that he would never have prostituted their stories for effect; Hill took no liberties with the facts of either story, out of loyalty and respect, if nothing else. One of the men was Hill’s closest personal friend for more than twenty-five years, and the other was his own son. The unusual success of these two men, success which they generously accredit to the principle described in the next chapter, more than justifies Hill’s personal reference as a means of emphasizing the far-flung power of this principle.”
Impression On Youth
In 1922, Napoleon Hill delivered the Commencement Address at Salem College, Salem, West Virginia. In it, Hill emphasized the principle described in the next chapter, so intensely that at least one of the members of the graduating class definitely embraced it, and made it a part of his own life-philosophy. The young man went on to become a member of Congress, and an important factor in the government. Just before this book went to the publisher, he wrote a letter to Hill. In the letter the Congressman very clearly states his opinion of the principle outlined in the next chapter; so much so that the author decided to publish his letter as an introduction to the chapter.
In the next installment, I’ll run you through what the original letter reads…
Sean Rasmussen
Success Communicator
SeanRasmussen.com © 2004-2008
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Nice post!
A deep impression on youth can revolutionize the entire world. Young people are smart enough to identify the exact difference between the right and the wrong. Youths are always awesome followers.
Indeed! And the way we influence the youth is the way they will influence their future youth. Hmm, where did we go wrong in the sixties? LOL
It is much easier to learn new things while you are young, as you are still open, focusing on learning anyway and because you are not so much “settled” in your comfort zone but eager to experiment. So yes, where did we go wrong?
I am currently reading “why we want you to be rich” by R.Kiyosaki and D.Trump. They also explain that there should be much more taught about finances at school, about the mindset to create wealth. At the moment the main information around money we get seems to be from our parents. But what was right for them might be not a good idea for me, as the times and circumstances are dramatically different.
So, Sean, when do you start teaching at schools?
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Hi Sean,
Wow! The foresight shown by Salem College to have Napoleon Hill deliver the commencement address to their graduating class is amazing. We know from having read the book that this speech dramatically changed the life of one of the students and maybe the rest of us also.
What a privilege to speak to a large of group of bright, future young leaders. YouTube Steve Jobs’ speech to Stanford University grads in 2005. Surprisingly, he’s not the best orator in the world, but his story and message are so inspiring.
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Hi Sean,
Sounds like an interesting address. I am eagerly awaiting your next informative post on this interesting subject.
I like the foundations you have set here to receiving the information.
I wait with baited breath.
Jill.