"Birds of a feather flock together." "A man is known by the company he
keeps." "Like begets like." "We are creatures of environment."
All these truthful sayings have been preserved as proverbs simply
because they are simon pure truths.
The matter of associates is most important for the business man or
employe to consider. The young man who spends his time in gambling,
drinking or dissipation cannot do his best work. He can no more hide
these practices than the clouds can obscure the sun permanently, for
evil, as well as truth, is sure to come out.
One of the best attributes a man can possess is character. Character
gives him credit at the bank, it gives him a standing among men. If the
employe ever expects to be a boss he must have character, and he must
associate with men of ideas who will be helpful to him.
A man will never improve his game of billiards if he always associates
and plays with an inferior. He may satisfy himself for the time being
that he is a big toad in a little puddle, but if he plays with a poorer
player than he is he is bound to retrograde.
The only way we can advance is to surround ourselves and associate with
uplifting influences and healthful individuals. Our eyes should be
turned forward and not backward.
It will make several seconds difference in the speed of a horse whether
he is running against a horse he can beat or running against a horse
that can beat him. Race horse men have reduced this truth to actual
practice. They have what is called a pace maker. When they want a horse
to trot fast they mount a boy on a running horse just ahead of the
trotter.
If a man associates with his inferiors, the association will surely
keep him from progressing.
If you want to make money, if you want to progress in the business
world, go where money is being made and mix with people who are making
money.
No man is naturally bad. No man gives himself over to criminal acts or
hurtful habits solely upon his own instincts. These actions and habits
come about through associations.
Go to the criminal court any day and you will see evidences of the man
who is pulled down on account of his associates.
Mix with your superiors in matters of business and morals and you will
unconsciously absorb qualities and ideas that will push you to the
front.
Hitch your wagon to a star. Aim high. Pick out ideals in business, and
eliminate from your path all deterrent influences. There is no
hold-back like harmful associations. You will be judged by the company
you keep.
Old dog Tray was really a good dog, but he suffered because of his
propensity to associate with bad dogs.