These are two guides for the mind which are often wonderfully helpful
although sometimes they do not apply, but use them where possible.
Notice the Alphabetical Sequence and the Repetitions in the following
example of the first verse of Walter D. Wintel's "Thinking":
"Thinking"
If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you'd like to win, but think you can't,
It's almost a cinch you won't.
Notice that the first two lines are half repeated, also that each line
begins with "If" except the last one which changes to "It's."
In the first lines you have an example of reversed Alphabetical
Sequence in the "b" of beaten preceding the "a" of are, b-a instead of
a-b.
Alphabetical repetition occurs as a guide in the second line in the "d"
of "dare" and "don't". Again in the next lines of the "w" of "win" and
"won't."
Note the alphabetical arrangement of the guide letters of each line.
Write in front of each line its guide letter; first line "b" of
"beaten", second "d" of "dare"; third "w" of "win", fourth the "won" of
"won't", these can be used as guide letters, and if noted will help.
Take your pencil and mark the verse as suggested and use the words and
letters as guides, go over it a couple of times noting these helps and
you will be able to say it word for word.
Do the same with the other verses; if practical have the child learn
this poem. See that he gets its true lesson:
"Thinking"
If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you'd like to win, but think you can't,
It's almost a cinch you won't.
If you think you'll lose, you're lost;
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a fellow's will;
It's all in the state of mind.
If you think you're outclassed, you are;
You've got to think high to rise;
You've got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the one who thinks he can.