Page 192 - Napoleon Hill Think and Grow Rich Full Book | Success Learned

subconscious mind, of whatever qualities you possessed, which enabled you to
understand and adapt yourself to the laws of Nature. I ask that you assist me
in reaching and drawing upon whatever sources of knowledge are available to
this end.

"Mr. Burbank, I request that you pass on to me the knowledge which enabled
you to so harmonize the laws of Nature that you caused the cactus to shed its
thorns, and become an edible food.

195

NAPOLEON HILL THINK AND GROW RICH

Give me access to the knowledge which enabled you to make two blades of grass
grow where but one grew before, and helped you to blend the coloring of the
flowers with more splendor and harmony, for you, alone, have successfully
gilded the lily.

"Napoleon, I desire to acquire from you, by emulation, the marvelous ability you
possessed to inspire men, and to arouse them to greater and more determined
spirit of action. Also to acquire the spirit of enduring FAITH, which enabled you
to turn defeat into victory, and to surmount staggering obstacles. Emperor of
Fate, King of Chance, Man of Destiny, I salute you!

"Mr. Paine, I desire to acquire from you the freedom of thought and the courage
and clarity with which to express convictions, which so distinguished you!

"Mr. Darwin, I wish to acquire from you the marvelous patience, and ability to
study cause and effect, without bias or prejudice, so exemplified by you in the
field of natural science.

"Mr. Lincoln, I desire to build into my own character the keen sense of justice,
the untiring spirit of patience, the sense of humor, the human understanding,
and the tolerance, which were your distinguishing characteristics.

"Mr. Carnegie, I am already indebted to you for my choice of a life-work, which
has brought me great happiness and peace of mind. I wish to acquire a thorough
understanding of the principles of organized effort, which you used so effec-
tively in the building of a great industrial enterprise.

"Mr. Ford, you have been among the most helpful of the men who have supplied
much of the material essential to my work. I wish to acquire your spirit of per-
sistence, the determination, poise, and self-confidence which have enabled you
to master poverty, organize, unify, and simplify human effort, so I may help
others to follow in your footsteps.