Wealth rightly got and rightly used, rational enjoyment, power,
fame,--these are all worthy objects of ambition; but they are not
the highest objects, and you may acquire them all without
achieving true success. But if, whatever you seek, you put good
will into all your actions, you are sure of the best success at
last; for whatever else you gain or miss, you are building up a
noble and beautiful character, which is not only the best of
possessions in this world, but also is about all you can expect
to take with you into the next.
I say, good will in all your actions. You are not simply to be
kind and helpful to others; but, whatever you do, give honest,
earnest purpose to it. Thomas is put by his parents to learn a
business. But Thomas does not like to apply himself very closely.
"What's the use?" he says. "I'm not paid much, and I'm not going
to work much. I'll get along just as easily as I can, and have as
good times as I can."
So he shirks his tasks; and instead of thinking about his
employer's interests, or his own self-improvement, gives his mind
to trifles,--often to evil things, which in their ruinous effects
upon his life are not trifles.
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