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Copyright (c) 2011 Scott F Paradis "Acres of Diamonds" illustrates the folly of yearning for something believed to be out there. In truth what people need, what they desire, what they long for they already possess. The key to success, to happiness in life, is discovering your acres of diamonds. "Acres of Diamonds" is a record of a lecture Russell Conwell profitably delivered thousands of times to audiences all over the world early in the 20th century. The central narrative is an account of Persian nobleman and farmer, a contented and wealthy man — contented because he was wealthy, and wealthy because he was contented - that is, until he learned about rare and precious diamonds. The wealthy farmer forfeited everything he had, including his life, searching vainly in far off lands for a treasure that, had he only looked, he would have found enriching his own homestead. The story of the Persian is not a mere legend but a retelling of the discovery of the Golcanda mine - arguably the most magnificent diamond mine in the world. Conwell illustrates with other true examples how people have unwittingly abandoned physical treasure (gold, silver and oil) on their own properties in futile pursuit of the very same commodity elsewhere. Each case Conwell cites surfaces, in the minds of readers, righteous indignation at the thought of those others' blatant ignorance along with, if truth be told, a humbling realization that the folly of those others' could be our own. Conwell successfully blends the corporeal with the ethereal to arrive at the practical. Those searching for the means to amass wealth will find answers in "Acres of Diamonds" as will those probing for how to achieve greatness in any area of life. 'If you wish to be great at all, you must begin where you are and with what you are. Greatness consists of doing great deeds with little means and accomplishing vast purposes from humble stations.' Conwell suggests adopting Abraham Lincoln's principle for success: Whatever it is you have to do, put your whole mind to it and hold it there until the task is done. Know your wealth is near you. Most people look right over it. "Wherever there is human need; there is a great fortune." Only invest yourself, your time, energy, talent and your money where they are most needed. Know the demand and meet the need. Every lack is an opportunity. You need not search elsewhere. If you care to help other people; if you have the energy, the will and the good sense to act, you can profit. Success in business and success in life are built on the same principle - meet the needs of others. If you do this you will be happy. The truth is traveler, you have what you need to succeed. Do not discard or discount your talents. Assets and opportunities are at hand. Recognize and appreciate the treasure you possess. The distance from despair to fulfillment, from longing to abundance, from sorrow to celebration, is a realization in your mind. Take control of your life - mine your acres of diamonds.
Article Source: http://www.bharatbhasha.net Article Url: http://www.bharatbhasha.net/self_improvement.php/377946 Article Added on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 LD | ||||||||
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