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As a Man Thinketh
Assessment by Elvis Kenanda (Kenya)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
The mind guides our footsteps as we progress along the pathway of life.
Purity of mind leads inevitably to purity of life, to the precious love and understanding that should control our everyday acts and attitudes towards friends and foes.
But where must one look for guidance? How does one achieve purity of mind that alone brings happiness and confidence?
The author offers his clear answers in this book As A Man Thinketh. His words have helped millions for more than a century and they continue to point the true way to a better life for a troubled humanity.
“Out of a clean heart comes a clean life and a clean body,” James Allen writes. “Out of a defiled mind proceeds a defiled life and a corrupt body.”
Too many mortals strive to improve only their wordly position and too few seek spiritual betterment. Such is the problem James Allen faced in his own time. The ideas he found in his inner-most heart after great searching guided him which also helps to guide us.
2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you, use personal examples from your own life.
i. Mind is a Garden
When I was a little child I had dreams of what I wanted to be, sometimes I could make tin cars, mould the car with clay, and I could try to make it more perfect, with time I didn’t take more interest on cars, again I started rearing chicken, I could sell eggs while in school, my mind developed in a direction of selling something will make me get money, from selling eggs, and chickens I saved enough to purchase a goat while in school, this is what made me start business after finishing school, so our mind is like a garden we either cultivate it positively or leave it and weeds will grow to it.
“Every thought-seed sown or allowed to fall into the mind, and to take root there, produces its own, blossoming sooner or later into act, and bearing its own fruitage of opportunity and circumstance. Good thoughts bear good fruit, bad thoughts bad fruit.”
“Act is the blossom of thought, and joy and suffering are its fruits; thus does a man garner in the sweet and bitter fruitage of his own husbandry.”
“As the reaper of his own harvest, man learns both by suffering and bliss. By pursuing this process, a man sooner or later discovers that he is the master gardener of his soul, the director of his life.”
ii. Thought and Character
All along I was having positive thoughts about being successful in life, my thought were clear and I could maintain positive character, like in my business the character you portray will build or destroy your business, sometime back in my business I had a foreigner coming to purchase stuff, the pricing was giving him a problem, I didn’t take advantage to exploit him since he did not understand the language and pricing, however most of my business friends said that was a jackpot. I could have made a kill taking advantage of language barrier to exploit him, but I knew that I had to have clear thoughts and straight character for my business to grow.
“A noble and Godlike character is not a thing of favor or chance, but is the natural result of continued effort in right thinking, the effect of long-cherished association with Godlike thoughts.”
“In this direction, as in no other, is the law absolute that ‘He that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened;’ for only by patience, practice, and ceaseless importunity can a man enter the Door of the Temple of Knowledge.”
iii. Thought and Choice / Responsibility
When you start business or anything you have to be responsible, my business i take it seriously and very responsible, my business is my boss so i have to do it diligently open it in time and be there personally to interact with my clients, so i make a choice to spend my time in my business without any excuses, serve my clients directly.
“As a being of Power, Intelligence, and Love, and the lord of his own thoughts, man holds the key to every situation, and contains within himself that transforming and regenerative agency by which he may make himself what he wills.”
“A strong man cannot help a weaker unless that weaker is willing to be helped, and even then the weak man must become strong of himself; he must, by his own efforts, develop the strength which he admires in another.None but himself can alter his condition.”
iv. Effect of Thought on Circumstances
Sometimes not everything goes as planned, in business some unavoidable circumstance occur, the way to solve such circumstances matters a lot, I remember some years back I sold a cooking pan to a client but I didn’t realize that it had a broken handle, the following day the client claimed that I had sold to him a cooking pan with broken handle, I didn’t resist or say you are the one who broke it and you are bringing it back, I just took it and exchange it for him, the other one was well repaired and later sold it, i created trust to that client to date he still purchase stuffs from my business.
“In the light of this truth, what, then, is the meaning of fighting against circumstances? It means that a man is continually revolting against an effect without, while all the time he is nourishing and preserving itscause in his heart.”
“As a progressive and evolving being, man is where he is that he may learn that he may grow; and as he learns the spiritual lesson which any circumstance contains for him, it passes away and gives place to other circumstances.”
“Possessed of such knowledge, he will then know, looking back upon his past ignorance and blindness, that his life is, and always was, justly ordered, and that all his past experiences, good and bad, were the equitable outworking of his evolving, yet unevolved self.”
v. On the Soul
My soul is pure and when I deal with different level of clients. I tend to deal with them with compassionate understanding that they are divine and God sent to my business, because I am not the only one owning such business but they choice to come to me, so I guard my souls and spirituality while serving them.
“Even at birth the soul comes to its own and through every step of its earthly pilgrimage it attracts those combinations of conditions which reveal itself, which are the reflections of its own purity and impurity, its strength and weakness.”
“Men do not attract what they want, but that which they are.”
vi. On Fate, Nature and Universal Intelligence
When you have a clear mind and good thought, even of fate and natural calamity, God gives you wisdom to be prepared on such situations, I have insured my business just in case of any fate, and also my life, if anything happens to me my family will manage to move on with or without me, it is nature and if it happens it finds us prepared.
“The ‘divinity that shapes our ends’ is in ourselves; it is our very self. Only himself manacles man: thought and action are the gaolers of Fate; they imprison, being base; they are also the angels of Freedom; they liberate, being noble. Not what he wishes and prays for does a man get, but what he justly earns. His wishes and prayers are only gratified and answered when they harmonize with his thoughts and actions.”
“Nature helps every man to the gratification of the thoughts, which he most encourages, and opportunities are presented which will most speedily bring to the surface both the good and evil thoughts.”
“In a justly ordered universe, where loss of equipment would mean total destruction, individual responsibility must be absolute.”
“The universe does not favor the greedy, the dishonest, the vicious, although on the mere surface it may sometimes appear to do so; it helps the honest, the magnanimous, the virtuous. All the great Teachers of the ages have declared this in varying forms, and to prove and know it a man has but to persist in making himself more and more virtuous by lifting up his thoughts.“
vi. Thought; Habit; Circumstance
After I clearly decided that I will go on a business venture, my thoughts were clear and focused. My habit was that of a businessman, when I purchase or sell something that character comes out of a businessman, being keen, observant and weighing out the value of what I want to purchase.
vii. Thought and Suffering
Nothing comes out without endurance suffering is the process of making you appreciate what you have achieved or you are about to achieve, no pain no gain, my business never picked up instantly, sometimes i could make huge losses other stuffs could go back and the business could be at the edge of collapsing, i even thought that I wasn’t made to do business in other times i wanted to close down and look for a job, but I had hopes to try again and again, up to where i am today, nothing comes easily.
Disease and health, like circumstances, are rooted in thought.”
“Out of a clean heart comes a clean life and a clean body.”
“There is no physician like cheerful thought for dissipating the ills of the body; there is no comforter to compare with goodwill for dispersing the shadows of grief and sorrow.”
viii. On Serenity
When things go wrong your serenity is very important, being calm even when the situation looks bad, it makes you focused when my business was going down I didn’t panic I kept my serenity and the end I rose again if I wasn’t calm today; I couldn’t be the business owner.
ix. Thought and Purpose
Our thoughts and purpose should go hand in hand, you think to do something you put the purpose of doing it. I thought about to start a business and the purpose was to be self reliant and self employed and today i am enjoying that decision.
“To put away aimlessness and weakness, and to begin to think with purpose, is to enter the ranks of those strong ones who only recognize failure as one of the pathways to attainment; who make all conditions serve them, and who think strongly, attempt fearlessly, and accomplish masterfully.”
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
Guarding my thoughts is very important in life, nothing can be something before it’s in our mind, so my mind is a crucial part in my life.
4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.
“A man is literally what he thinks, his character being the complete sum of all his thoughts.”
“As the plant springs from, and could not be without, the seed, so every act of a man springs from the hidden seeds of thought.”
“Act is the blossom of thought, and joy and suffering are its fruits.”
“Man is made or unmade by himself; in the armoury of thought he forges the weapons by which he destroys himself.”
“As a being of Power, Intelligence, and Love, and the lord of his own thoughts, man holds the key to every situation.”
Quotes on Self-Control and Mastery
“Self-control is strength. Right thought is mastery. Calmness is power.”
“The body is the servant of the mind.”
“A man who cannot direct his thoughts is powerless to resist the influence of those who can.”
“He who has conquered doubt and fear has conquered failure.”
“Man is buffeted by circumstances so long as he believes himself to be the creature of outside conditions.”
Quotes On Success and Failure
“The dreamers are the saviors of the world.”
“Men do not attract what they want, but that which they are.”
“You will become as small as your controlling desire; as great as your dominant aspiration.”
“Circumstance does not make the man; it reveals him to himself.”
“To desire is to obtain; to aspire is to achieve.”
“The mind is like a garden which can be intelligently cultivated or allowed to run wild.”
“Just as a gardener cultivates his plot, keeping it free from weeds, so may a man tend the garden of his mind.”
“Good thoughts and actions can never produce bad results; bad thoughts and actions can never produce good results.”
“Thoughts of doubt and fear never accomplish anything, and never can. They always lead to failure.”
“A man should conceive of a legitimate purpose in his heart, and set out to accomplish it.”
“In the ocean of life, the isles of blessedness are smiling, and the sunny shore of your ideal awaits your coming.”
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and if so, why?
The book is well explained.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?
The book contains exercises for mind development.
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.
It is well covered
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10
Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Assessment by Elvis Kenanda (Kenya)
1. What is the main idea that the author is trying to convey in the book?
“Jonathan Livingston Seagull” is a profound exploration of individuality, freedom, and the pursuit of excellence. Through the metaphor of flight, the story challenges readers to break free from societal constraints and embrace their true potential. Jonathan’s journey from outcast to visionary leader serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance and the courage to defy norms. The narrative emphasizes the importance of mentorship, community, and the transformative impact of knowledge. In a modern context, the story resonates as a call to pursue one’s passions and strive for personal growth, regardless of societal expectations.
Unconventional gull seeks perfection: The story follows Jonathan, a seagull who is not content with the mundane life of eating and fighting for scraps. He is obsessed with learning to fly, pushing his limits and exploring the art of flight.
Outcast for his passion: Jonathan’s dedication to flight leads to his exile from the flock, as his pursuits are seen as irresponsible and a violation of tradition. He continues to learn and grow in solitude.
Return to teach others: Jonathan eventually returns to his flock, not to seek acceptance, but to share his knowledge and inspire others to pursue their own potential and break free from limitations.
Jonathan Livingston Seagull receives mixed reviews, with some praising its inspirational message about pursuing dreams and self-improvement, while others criticize it as simplistic and preachy. Fans appreciate the book’s encouragement to break free from societal constraints and find one’s true purpose. Critics argue it lacks depth and relies on clichéd self-help concepts. Many readers note the book’s impact varies depending on the age and life stage when it’s read, often resonating more with younger audiences. The writing style and philosophical elements are viewed as both profound and overly sentimental by different reviewers.
2. What were the seven ideas which were personally most important to you and why? List these seven ideas followed by an explanation after each one as to why it was important to you, use personal examples from your own life.
i. The Outcast Dreamer
Jonathan has an unique passion for flight. Jonathan Livingston Seagull is unlike any other gull. While the rest of his flock is preoccupied with the mundane task of scavenging for food, Jonathan is driven by a singular passion: the art of flying. His relentless pursuit of perfecting his flight techniques sets him apart, much to the dismay of his family and peers. Despite their disapproval, Jonathan is undeterred, spending his days experimenting with new maneuvers and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the air. His dedication to flight is not just about physical prowess but a deeper quest for freedom and self-discovery.
ii. Flight Beyond Limits
Jonathan’s has a quest for speed and control. Jonathan’s obsession with flight leads him to explore the limits of speed and control. He discovers that by folding his wings, he can achieve unprecedented speeds, setting a new record for seagulls. However, his triumph is short-lived as he struggles with the dangers of high-speed maneuvers. Despite numerous crashes and setbacks, Jonathan’s determination never wavers. He learns to control his dives and revels in the joy of flying at speeds no gull has ever reached. His journey is a testament to his resilience and unyielding spirit.
iii. The Breakthrough
Jonathan’s moment of realization was after a series of failures, Jonathan experiences a breakthrough. He realizes that by using only the tips of his wings, he can maintain control at high speeds. This revelation transforms his understanding of flight, allowing him to perform complex aerobatics with ease. Jonathan’s newfound skills bring him immense joy and a sense of accomplishment. He no longer feels bound by the limitations of his physical form, embracing the freedom that comes with mastery of the skies. His breakthrough marks a turning point in his journey, as he begins to see himself as more than just an ordinary seagull.
iv. Exile and Solitude
Jonathan’s banishment and self-discovery. Jonathan’s unconventional ways lead to his exile from the flock. Branded as an outcast, he is forced to live in solitude. However, this isolation becomes a blessing in disguise. Free from the constraints of societal expectations, Jonathan dedicates himself to perfecting his flight. He discovers new techniques and learns to sustain himself without relying on the flock. His solitude allows him to reflect on his purpose and the true meaning of freedom. Jonathan’s exile becomes a journey of self-discovery, as he embraces his identity as a pioneer of flight.
v. Heavenly Horizons
Jonathan’s ascent to a higher plane. Jonathan’s relentless pursuit of perfection catches the attention of two radiant gulls who invite him to join them in a higher realm. In this new world, Jonathan finds himself surrounded by like-minded gulls who share his passion for flight. He learns that heaven is not a place but a state of being, achieved through the pursuit of perfection. Jonathan’s new body allows him to fly faster and more effortlessly than ever before. He continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, driven by an insatiable desire to reach new heights.
vi. Lessons of Perfection
Jonathan’s training with the Elder; under the guidance of the Elder Gull, Chiang, Jonathan learns the secrets of perfect speed and the true nature of freedom. Chiang teaches him that perfection is not about physical limits but about transcending them. Jonathan learns to travel instantaneously across space and time, realizing that true freedom lies in the mastery of one’s own mind. His lessons with Chiang deepen his understanding of flight and life, as he learns to let go of fear and embrace the infinite possibilities of existence.
vii. Return to the Flock
Jonathan had a mission to teach. Driven by a desire to share his knowledge, Jonathan returns to the flock. Despite being an outcast, he is determined to teach others the joy of flight and the power of self-discovery. He gathers a group of eager students, including Fletcher Lynd Seagull, who share his passion for learning. Jonathan’s teachings challenge the flock’s traditional beliefs, but he remains steadfast in his mission. Through patience and perseverance, he inspires a new generation of gulls to break free from their limitations and embrace their true potential.
viii. The New Generation; Fletcher’s leadership and legacy
As Jonathan’s teachings take root, Fletcher Lynd Seagull emerges as a leader among the new generation of gulls. Under Jonathan’s guidance, Fletcher learns to overcome his own limitations and discovers the true meaning of freedom. He becomes a mentor to others, continuing Jonathan’s legacy of teaching and inspiring change. Fletcher’s journey reflects the transformative power of Jonathan’s vision, as he leads the flock toward a future of limitless possibilities. The story concludes with a message of hope and the enduring impact of one gull’s quest for excellence.
3. How will these ideas or lessons help you in a practical way, both in your daily personal life and in helping you to create a better world? If so, how?
This book enlightens me that there is no man who is limited, we can do whatever we want and achieve it to the highest goal no matter the situation
4. Quotes: Are there any statements which the author made that particularly got your attention? If so, please quote them and comment as to why they were important to you.
“The gull sees farthest who flies highest.”
This quote emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence and pushing beyond limitations to gain a broader perspective on life.
“To fly as fast as thought, to anywhere that is, you must begin by knowing that you have already arrived.”
This quote highlights the power of mindset and the idea that true freedom comes from within.
“Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.”
This quote encourages readers to look beyond the surface and trust their inner wisdom to overcome limitations.
“Most gulls don’t bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight; how to get from shore to food and back again. For most gulls, it is not flying that matters, but eating. For this gull, though, it was not eating that mattered, but flight. More than anything else, Jonathan Livingston Seagull loved to fly.”
“The wind was a monster roar at his head. Seventy miles per hour, ninety, a hundred and twenty and faster still. The wing-strain now at a hundred and forty miles per hour wasn’t nearly as hard as it had been before at seventy, and with the faintest twist of his wingtips he eased out of the dive and shot above the waves, a gray cannonball under the moon. He closed his eyes to slits against the wind and rejoiced. A hundred forty miles per hour! And under control! If I dive from five thousand feet instead of two thousand, I wonder how fast. His vows of a moment before were forgotten, swept away in that great swift wind. Yet he felt guiltless, breaking the promises he had made himself. Such promises are only for the gulls that accept the ordinary. One who has touched excellence in his learning has no need of that kind of promise.”
5. Is there anything in the book that you do not understand or are unclear about, or are there ideas which you disagree with and, if so, why?
The book is well explained.
6. Did the book contain exercises for the reader to complete? If so, did you complete all of the exercises and did you find them helpful?
The book contains exercises for mind development
7. Was there anything you read in the book that you would like to comment on that was not covered in the previous questions? If so, please comment.
It is well covered.
Please rate the following questions on a scale from 1 to 10. Ten is good and one is poor.
A. How interesting was it to read? 10
B. How helpful were the contents? 10
C. How easy was it to understand? 10
D. Would you recommend it to others? 10
E. What is the overall rating you would give it? 10