It would appear from this letter, which Napoleon Hill was so careful to include, that a source of motivation to write this book may well have gotten its beginnings from a chance meeting of sorts. Here is the first half of the letter that details the impact Hill had on one of many people in high places.
Commencement, Beginnings
“My dear Napoleon:
“My service as a Member of Congress having given me an insight into the problems of men and women, I am writing to offer a suggestion which may become helpful to thousands of worthy people.
“With apologies, I must state that the suggestion, if acted upon, will mean several years of labor and responsibility for you, but I am en-heartened to make the suggestion, because I know your great love for rendering useful service.
“In 1922, you delivered the Commencement address at Salem College, when I was a member’ of the graduating class. In that address, you planted in my mind an idea which has been responsible for the opportunity I now have to serve the people of my State, and will be responsible, in a very large measure, for whatever success I may have in the future.
“The suggestion I have in mind is, that you put into a book the sum and substance of the address you delivered at Salem College, and in that way give the people of America an opportunity to profit by your many years of experience and association with the men who, by their greatness, have made America the richest nation on earth.
Inspired By Speakers
“I recall, as though it were yesterday, the marvelous description you gave of the method by which Henry Ford, with but little schooling, without a dollar, with no influential friends, rose to great heights. I made up my mind then, even before you had finished your speech, that I would make a place for myself, no matter how many difficulties I had to surmount.
“Thousands of young people will finish their schooling this year, and within the next few years. Every one of them will be seeking just such a message of practical encouragement as the one I received from you. They will want to know where to turn, what to do, to get started in life. You can tell them, because you have helped to solve the problems of so many, many people.”
I think we’ve all had times when a key speaker or presenter has touched us, and motivated us to greatness. Sometimes that feeling is soon lost and sometimes it molds an entire life, as Hill did here. We’ll conclude the letter in our next post. Do be sure to see what else this motivated member of congress had to say!
Sean Rasmussen
Success Communicator
SeanRasmussen.com © 2004-2008
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
You’ll never know HOW something is going to happen, and nor would you want to. That would take the fun out of life now wouldn’t it.
An attempt does matter!
No doubt, Hill influenced several people for recognizing their responsibilities. Motivational influences are very important to get a desired action that consequently leads to successful result.
“I think we’ve all had times when a key speaker or presenter has touched us, and motivated us to greatness. Sometimes that feeling is soon lost and sometimes it molds an entire life” – this is so true Sean. I guess sometimes it depends on how ready we are to change, as the saying goes, ‘when the student is ready the teacher will appear’. Looking forward for the continuation of the letter.. All I can feel right now is inspiration, inspiration, inspiration. Yes, I can do it!
Thanks Sharon. Napoleon still inspires people after all of these years. Incredible!
Hi Sean,
It’s true you never know who will speak to you in such a way that will transform your world. Nor do you know which books you will read that will stay with you for a lifetime.
I think this is integral for our success. We have to find that one thing that connects the dots for us and makes us believe that we can become one of the greats.
Its fascinating from where and when such an inspiring person can come into our life. I love the saying “When the student is ready the teacher appears” as it also makes clear a pre-requisite from my side: I have to be open for what is coming. I have to be looking for it in a way.
Being in the Information age and having things like the internet makes the distribution of information really easy – thanks to guys like you putting great books and posts online. Now we have to make sure we teach our kids that they stay open and know what they want to achieve. Once they know the goal, they will find the way to get their easily.
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That’s a great letter, written in surprisingly simple English, especially for that time. That was one smart member of Congress…
Befitting blog post for me to read right now. I actually had the privilege to witness a speech tonight that moved me. It was as though the speaker talked right to my heart in the room of 200+. Amazing when you can be a part of that.
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