Part 3 (End of Preface)

A line of distinction, however, should be drawn between mere surface thought, that is, ordinary, trivial and commonplace thinking, and real thought, which is associated with the understanding of Truth. The latter is deep thinking which arouses dormant powers, quickens the perceptions, and leads to the enlargement of the understanding. The former is but a passing phase of mental activity, while the latter governs the life of man. The shallow, surface thought that we give to the ordinary duties and small things of daily life is not the thought that reforms our character, develops our mind or changes our destiny. It is the positive, deep, and penetrating thought that comes from profound and strong conviction born of a higher perception and a clearer realization of the Truth.
The surface idea is not the real thought.
The inner convictions which control one’s aims, desires, and motives, constitute the real thought of the individual and wholly determine the course of his life and personal destiny.
Psychologists tell us that every individual is controlled by his convictions, whether he is aware of it or not. Such convictions largely determine the nature of his thinking; the inner thought coming from the heart represents the real motives and desires. These are the causes of action. If his ideas or convictions are wholesome and true to his higher nature all will be well, and he will reflect something of the harmony and beauty and utility of his constructive and superior views in his personal life. If his convictions or ideas are not wholesome and true, he will reflect something that is discordant, inharmonious, and evil.
Always make it a point of moving forward in your mind, ever seeking to unfold your power of thought and to develop hidden possibilities.

Learn to train the mind to clear and exact thinking. Your ability to do so will grow rapidly by regular exercise and discipline. No normal person wants to decrease in power and ability. Therefore, strive to cultivate your intelligence and to express better, bigger, and superior thought on all matters about which you may think. There is so much good in the world that it can out balance the evil; therefore, you can go on thinking more
constructive and good thoughts every day, about yourself, your fellowman, life, and all natural things, to the constant enrichment of your mind and the improvement of your whole being.
You cannot get the most out of these lessons by reading them once or twice. They should be read often and studied with scrutiny. You will find with each reading something clearer than before.

Raymond Holliwell