A man should conceive of a legitimate purpose in his heart, and
set out to accomplish it. He should make this purpose the
centralizing point of his thoughts. It may take the form of a
spiritual ideal, or it may be a worldly object, according to his
nature at the time being; but whichever it is, he shouldsteadily
focus his thought forces upon the object which he has set before
him. He should make this purpose his supreme duty, and should
devote himself to its attainment, not allowing his thoughts to
wander away into ephemeral fancies, longings, and imaginings. This
is the royal road to self-control and true concentration of
thought. Even if he fails again and again to accomplish his purpose
(as he necessarily must until weakness is overcome), the strength
of character gained will be the measure of his truesuccess, and
this will form a new starting point for future power and