The late Samuel L. Clemens (Mark Twain) advised a young man who
desired to enter business to select the firm with which he wished
to be associated, then ask that they give him work, without
mentioning the subject of compensation. Having secured this
opportunity to demonstrate his ability and willingness to work,
recognition would come in due time. This advice received the
approval of many prominent business men. It concretely illustrates
the fact that the first essential of success is the willingness to
serve. It also emphasizes the necessity of being ready to do the
work in accordance with the employer's wishes. Ultimate success
also requires knowledge and trained ability. These, however, come
through apprenticeship and a faithful improvement of opportunities.
The Hebrew sages, with true insight, emphasized the importance of
knowledge; but they taught also that wisdom, which is not only
knowledge, but the power to apply it practically in the various
relations of life, was far more important.
What other qualities are essential to the highest success? Is it
very important that a man should have the right moral standards?
How do a man's habits affect his efficiency?
Is it only the genius who is able to attain the highest success
to-day in business and professional life? Do you accept George
Eliot's definition of genius as "the capacity for unlimited work"?
To what extent does a man's faith in God and in his fellow men
determine his ability to win success? How far are they essential
to the attainment of the highest type of success?