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Acres of Diamonds: All Good Things Are Possible, Right Where You Are, and Now!
Inspirational Classic There was once a man who dreamed of finding a diamond mine. He sold his farm and set out to travel far and wide on his search, without any luck. When he returned to his home town, he was astonished to find that there had been a diamond mine on his old farm the whole time! This story underpins the author's teaching, to work from where we are here and now. Success is not out there, it's in the qualities within us. Meet the author, a self-made man who lived a totally unselfish life, and who opened doors of opportunity for untold millions through his philosophy that "ALL GOOD THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!" He believed that each of us is placed here on earth for one main purpose--to help others. Conwell was a minister, the founder of Temple University, and two hospitals where no one was ever turned away for lack of money. He was also a famous lecturer. In his lecture, the story is told of a man who sells his farm, to travel far and wide in search of diamonds. There is a moral to the tale Conwell gave the lecture over 6,000 times to untold numbers of people. It earned over $4,000,000 (about $150,000,000 in today's dollars.) all given to youth and education. "ACRES OF DIAMONDS" is a spiritual book. It is not a "get-rich-quick" guide. Conwell saw that success is a spiritual idea, and is a result of spiritual principles. The 160-page book includes the lecture and biographical material. Here is the original self-motivational message, long lost, now found! You, too, can find your fortune -- if you know where to look. Let the author point you in the right direction to find your "Acres of Diamonds." There are many opportunities for success today as in Conwell's time, if not more so, because they are found first and foremost in one's own conscience.
160 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 1915
753 people are currently reading
9839 people want to read
About the author
Russell H. Conwell
307 books60 followersRussell Herman Conwell was a Baptist minister, philanthropist, lawyer, and writer best remembered as the founder of Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and for his inspirational lecture, Acres of Diamonds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
August 15, 2012
Based on a speech originally given as a lecture to raise money for what would become Temple University, this parable about seeing the riches around you can help give you a new perspective. Short and powerful (the book is much like "Who Moved My Cheese" in that it is brief, but contains an important lesson told in the form of a story) "Acres of Diamonds" will force you to take a new look at your own backyard when looking for opportunity. The basic story revolves around a Persian farmer who loses his life and significant wealth looking for a mine of diamonds when, ironically, his own farm land (which he sold to finance his search for diamonds) literally contained acres of diamonds. Conwell gives several other examples of similar stories revolving around gold, oil, etc. The grass isn't always greener on the other side...don't discount where you are, what you know and the relationships that you already have too quickly. Rambles a bit, but it's still a great story with a timeless message.
August 25, 2013
This is a small book with a large message that could potentially have an enormous impact on the reader with the 'ears to hear' it and the will to internalize it and put it into action in his or her life every day. The greatness that exists within every one of us does not exist in any external form whatsoever. Rather, it exists within us...waiting to be uncovered and unleashed. When used for the good of others and not for reasons of selfish gain, we discover that we, also, have more than we need; of contentment, of happiness and, yes, of wealth also. As we like to say in my household, "Change your mind, change your life."
March 3, 2014
There are some good values in Acres of Diamonds, but a pastor who argues that "poverty is the result of God's opinion of those people" and "rich men are the most honest men" is unbelievably misled. For one, does he know Jesus led a life of poverty, serving the poor? And for two, has he ever heard of advertising? If only he had any clue that many businesses would depend on, and thrive on, using fear and false information to sell things that nobody actually needs.
In fairness, I made it through about 15% of the book before deciding that while I am conservative and there are great arguments for working hard, this is not one of them.
In fairness, I made it through about 15% of the book before deciding that while I am conservative and there are great arguments for working hard, this is not one of them.
May 29, 2012
I wish I could remember what caused me to buy this book over 10 years ago. I have been taking it with me through 6 moves, and I finally read it last night. Horrid. Maybe it is the original prosperity gospel. I have never read so much bs in so few pages. I have never done this with a book before but I am throwing it in the trash.
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March 20, 2015Book teaches:
1. Prosper where you are (there is a veritable gold mine where you are NOW, find it).
2. Great men are often plain men. Greatness does not come by gaining some "important" office.
3. Figure out what people want and then give it to them.
1. Prosper where you are (there is a veritable gold mine where you are NOW, find it).
2. Great men are often plain men. Greatness does not come by gaining some "important" office.
3. Figure out what people want and then give it to them.
July 31, 2013
Sometimes we forget to look in our own backyard be it for answers or for ideas to further our wealth, health, or spiritual self.
We live in a society where everything better is assigned an 'elusive' tag. Where everything better is always something we don't possess.
This little book reminds us that that is not always the case.
We are taught to always weigh all our options before proceeding with a decision and too many times we only weigh 'outer' options failing to take stock of what we already possess and how we can enhance our current inventory or current skills to receive greater returns.
Another gem this book touches on is people's attitude towards money.
You won't become wealthy if you believe money to be evil.
You won't become wealthy if you begrudge others for their success.
Develop a healthy attitude towards money. It is not evil.
Always be generous. Always.
Opportunities are readily available, but you have to learn to not pursue one avenue of means to attain what you want.
Keep an open mind and start at home.
Lastly, embrace who you are and work from there.
Be a noble character and be great. Don't say you will become great when you have achieved what you wanted.
If you are not great now you can't be great then.
Substitute 'great' for any other word until the message clicks for you.
Charity starts at home.
"Begin where you are and what you are."
We live in a society where everything better is assigned an 'elusive' tag. Where everything better is always something we don't possess.
This little book reminds us that that is not always the case.
We are taught to always weigh all our options before proceeding with a decision and too many times we only weigh 'outer' options failing to take stock of what we already possess and how we can enhance our current inventory or current skills to receive greater returns.
Another gem this book touches on is people's attitude towards money.
You won't become wealthy if you believe money to be evil.
You won't become wealthy if you begrudge others for their success.
Develop a healthy attitude towards money. It is not evil.
Always be generous. Always.
Opportunities are readily available, but you have to learn to not pursue one avenue of means to attain what you want.
Keep an open mind and start at home.
Lastly, embrace who you are and work from there.
Be a noble character and be great. Don't say you will become great when you have achieved what you wanted.
If you are not great now you can't be great then.
Substitute 'great' for any other word until the message clicks for you.
Charity starts at home.
"Begin where you are and what you are."
February 28, 2015
From a very famous speech in the 1800s. Hilarious in places, and with some surprising historical information. I'm listing the historic info first, followed by a few quotes on self-improvement.
HISTORIC INFO:
1. Inventions originally by women (but patented by men)
Jacquard loom
cotton gin
sewing machine
mower/reaper
trolley switch
iron squeezers in steel mills
2. Funny meeting w/ General Robert E. Lee
"The general told me about his servant Rastus, who was an enlisted colored soldier. He called him in one day to make fun of him, and said "Rastus, I hear that all the rest of your company are killed… why are you not killed?" Rastus winked at him and said, " 'Cause when there is any fighting going on, I stay back with the generals."
3. On meeting President Lincoln
"He was one of the world's greatest men, and was made great by one single rule. Abraham Lincoln's principle for greatness can be adopted by nearly all. This was his rule: whatsoever he had to do at all, he put his whole mind into it and held it all there until that was all done. That makes men great almost anywhere. He stuck to those papers at that table and did not look up at me, and I sat there trembling. Finally, when he had put the string around his papers, he pushed them over to one side and looked over to me, and a smile came over his worn face. He said: “I am a very busy man and have only a few minutes to spare. Now tell me in the fewest words what it is you want."
...A few days later...I saw the... the coffin of Abraham Lincoln, and when I looked at the upturned face of the murdered President, I felt then that the man I had seen such a short time before, who, so simple a man, so plain a man, was one of the greatest men that God ever raised up..."
SELF-IMPROVEMENT QUOTES:
"A diamond is a congealed drop of sunlight."
"He had not lost anything, but he was poor because he was discontented, and discontented because he feared he was poor."
"It is your duty to get rich."
"98% of the rich men in America are very honest. That is why they are rich… that is why they are trusted with all that money. That is why they carry great enterprises and find plenty of people to work with them."
"Money is power, and you ought to be reasonably ambitious to have it. You ought to because you can do more good with it then you could without it."
"You cannot trust a man with your money if he cannot take care of his own."
"Sell a known demand. That's the secret to success."
"You don't know where your neighbor comes from… and you don't care. If you cared, you would be a rich man now. If you'd have cared enough about him to take an interest in his affairs, to find out what he needed, you would be rich."
"Your wealth is so near you, you're looking right over it."
"Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but in doing great deeds with little means, and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life."
"Did you ever see a man who struts around altogether too large to notice an ordinary working mechanic? Do you think he is great? He is nothing but a puffed up balloon, held down by his big feet. There is no greatness there."
"He who cannot be a blessing where he now lives will never be great anywhere on the face of God's earth."
"He most lives who thinks most, who feels the noblest, and who acts the best."
HISTORIC INFO:
1. Inventions originally by women (but patented by men)
Jacquard loom
cotton gin
sewing machine
mower/reaper
trolley switch
iron squeezers in steel mills
2. Funny meeting w/ General Robert E. Lee
"The general told me about his servant Rastus, who was an enlisted colored soldier. He called him in one day to make fun of him, and said "Rastus, I hear that all the rest of your company are killed… why are you not killed?" Rastus winked at him and said, " 'Cause when there is any fighting going on, I stay back with the generals."
3. On meeting President Lincoln
"He was one of the world's greatest men, and was made great by one single rule. Abraham Lincoln's principle for greatness can be adopted by nearly all. This was his rule: whatsoever he had to do at all, he put his whole mind into it and held it all there until that was all done. That makes men great almost anywhere. He stuck to those papers at that table and did not look up at me, and I sat there trembling. Finally, when he had put the string around his papers, he pushed them over to one side and looked over to me, and a smile came over his worn face. He said: “I am a very busy man and have only a few minutes to spare. Now tell me in the fewest words what it is you want."
...A few days later...I saw the... the coffin of Abraham Lincoln, and when I looked at the upturned face of the murdered President, I felt then that the man I had seen such a short time before, who, so simple a man, so plain a man, was one of the greatest men that God ever raised up..."
SELF-IMPROVEMENT QUOTES:
"A diamond is a congealed drop of sunlight."
"He had not lost anything, but he was poor because he was discontented, and discontented because he feared he was poor."
"It is your duty to get rich."
"98% of the rich men in America are very honest. That is why they are rich… that is why they are trusted with all that money. That is why they carry great enterprises and find plenty of people to work with them."
"Money is power, and you ought to be reasonably ambitious to have it. You ought to because you can do more good with it then you could without it."
"You cannot trust a man with your money if he cannot take care of his own."
"Sell a known demand. That's the secret to success."
"You don't know where your neighbor comes from… and you don't care. If you cared, you would be a rich man now. If you'd have cared enough about him to take an interest in his affairs, to find out what he needed, you would be rich."
"Your wealth is so near you, you're looking right over it."
"Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but in doing great deeds with little means, and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life."
"Did you ever see a man who struts around altogether too large to notice an ordinary working mechanic? Do you think he is great? He is nothing but a puffed up balloon, held down by his big feet. There is no greatness there."
"He who cannot be a blessing where he now lives will never be great anywhere on the face of God's earth."
"He most lives who thinks most, who feels the noblest, and who acts the best."
July 31, 2015
Everything you want to do lies within you, all the sources and the forces are in you..
" Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but really consists in doing great deeds with little means and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life."
" Let every man or woman here, if you never hear me again, remember this, that if you wish to be great at all, you must begin where you are and what you are, in Philadelphia, now. He that can give to his city any blessing, he who can be a good citizen while he lives here, he that can make better homes, he that can be a blessing whether he works in the shop or sits behind the counter or keeps house, whatever be his life, he who would be great anywhere must first be great in his own Philadelphia"
" Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but really consists in doing great deeds with little means and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life."
" Let every man or woman here, if you never hear me again, remember this, that if you wish to be great at all, you must begin where you are and what you are, in Philadelphia, now. He that can give to his city any blessing, he who can be a good citizen while he lives here, he that can make better homes, he that can be a blessing whether he works in the shop or sits behind the counter or keeps house, whatever be his life, he who would be great anywhere must first be great in his own Philadelphia"
January 21, 2016
I picked this book up on a whim, intrigued by the banner of text touting the words inside as one of the most famous sermons in American history.
So.
I liked it at first. I liked the idea that we all strive for something that is often already in our lives and that we’re seduced by the idea that something better is out there in some far off place. It’s the old the-grass-is-always greener adage. I like the message that we don’t need to wait to do good or make an impact – we can start now, start small, that greatness is not some future calling for someone else, but something that starts here and now.
If that were the entirety of this sermon, I would like it. Unfortunately, Acres of Diamonds is the worst sort of prosperity gospel. Mr. Conwell injects significant amounts of pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps, everybody-can-get-rich-and-if-you-aren’t-it’s-your-own-fault religious justification for capitalism. I don’t entirely disagree with the importance of hard work in finding success, but Mr. Conwell’s vision of America doesn’t jive with the reality of America at that point in the country’s history or the dire circumstances facing many of its citizens. The sermon presents a narrow view of the world, one based on, I would imagine, Mr. Conwell’s own experiences and the assumption that everyone had his opportunities and advantages, along with a misguided belief that financial success is proof of God’s love.
From a historical standpoint, it’s an interesting and quick read. And there’s no doubt that Mr. Conwell did significant good over the course of his own life. It’s just a shame he couldn’t appreciate and acknowledge the extraordinariness of his own life when delivering this sermon. Quasi-recommended.
So.
I liked it at first. I liked the idea that we all strive for something that is often already in our lives and that we’re seduced by the idea that something better is out there in some far off place. It’s the old the-grass-is-always greener adage. I like the message that we don’t need to wait to do good or make an impact – we can start now, start small, that greatness is not some future calling for someone else, but something that starts here and now.
If that were the entirety of this sermon, I would like it. Unfortunately, Acres of Diamonds is the worst sort of prosperity gospel. Mr. Conwell injects significant amounts of pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps, everybody-can-get-rich-and-if-you-aren’t-it’s-your-own-fault religious justification for capitalism. I don’t entirely disagree with the importance of hard work in finding success, but Mr. Conwell’s vision of America doesn’t jive with the reality of America at that point in the country’s history or the dire circumstances facing many of its citizens. The sermon presents a narrow view of the world, one based on, I would imagine, Mr. Conwell’s own experiences and the assumption that everyone had his opportunities and advantages, along with a misguided belief that financial success is proof of God’s love.
From a historical standpoint, it’s an interesting and quick read. And there’s no doubt that Mr. Conwell did significant good over the course of his own life. It’s just a shame he couldn’t appreciate and acknowledge the extraordinariness of his own life when delivering this sermon. Quasi-recommended.
October 10, 2014
I'm really amazed how much wisdom this book contains, every lesson is presented with a true story and it's very easy to recognize the value in these stories. The book itself really goes hard against the very common belief people have that the grass is always greener at the other side of the fence. To read this entire book it won't take you longer than an hour and it's full of powerful concepts that can be just as easily applied today as in 1846 when this book was first published.
August 4, 2011
Written by the founder of Temple University, "Acres of Diamonds" is an inspirational lecture about success. (The edition I read also included a biography of Russell Conwell and a brief autobiographical note from the author.)
Conwell, who presented this lecture in excess of 5,000 times during his life, was a Civil War officer, lawyer and pastor. His family farm was one of the stops on the Underground Railroad and he established one of the first schools that would educate African-American children.
In his presentation, Conwell talks about the importance of generosity, ideas, and finding out what needs one can fulfill as an entrepreneur. His style is flowing and eloquent, which makes it a delight to read despite some of the antiquated vernacular (this book was originally published in 1915).
Despite the age of the text, the ideas still hold true. Highly recommended for those interested in self-improvement and better business practices.
Conwell, who presented this lecture in excess of 5,000 times during his life, was a Civil War officer, lawyer and pastor. His family farm was one of the stops on the Underground Railroad and he established one of the first schools that would educate African-American children.
In his presentation, Conwell talks about the importance of generosity, ideas, and finding out what needs one can fulfill as an entrepreneur. His style is flowing and eloquent, which makes it a delight to read despite some of the antiquated vernacular (this book was originally published in 1915).
Despite the age of the text, the ideas still hold true. Highly recommended for those interested in self-improvement and better business practices.
April 9, 2015
Acres of Diamonds by Russell H. Conwell is a small, easy to read book with deep thoughts. It is an inspiring lecture on success in life, with emphasis on the perspective of wealth, money and doing good:
Some of his powerful words:
“Money is power, money is force, money will do good as well as harm. In the hands of good men and women it could accomplish, and it has accomplished, good.”
“You cannot trust a man with your money who cannot take care of his own. You cannot trust a man in your family that is not true to his own wife. You cannot trust a man in the world that does not begin with his own heart, his own character, and his own life.”
“The discipline of a poor boy is worth more than a university education to anyone.”
“The secret of success: You must first know the demand. You must first know what people need, and then invest yourself where you are most needed.”
Some of his powerful words:
“Money is power, money is force, money will do good as well as harm. In the hands of good men and women it could accomplish, and it has accomplished, good.”
“You cannot trust a man with your money who cannot take care of his own. You cannot trust a man in your family that is not true to his own wife. You cannot trust a man in the world that does not begin with his own heart, his own character, and his own life.”
“The discipline of a poor boy is worth more than a university education to anyone.”
“The secret of success: You must first know the demand. You must first know what people need, and then invest yourself where you are most needed.”
March 23, 2011
Another great example of someone who started out in life with nothing and achieved greatness. Mr. Conwell believed if you can find enough people to fulfill then need you are giving, you will become 'wealthy' because it is an automatic process.
Mr. Conwell was driven for the need to help other people help themselves. His primary motivation was to meet the needs of other people.
Have you heard of the Chinese proverb - 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime'. Well Mr. Conwell discovered that you could help a lot more people through the proper instruction than through the mere handout of material goods and food.
Mr. Conwell was driven for the need to help other people help themselves. His primary motivation was to meet the needs of other people.
Have you heard of the Chinese proverb - 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime'. Well Mr. Conwell discovered that you could help a lot more people through the proper instruction than through the mere handout of material goods and food.
December 30, 2011
Think about a simple lesson you may have learned in your life. How about: The answer you are looking for is usually right in front of you. Well...this is what the book depicts for the reader. It really is well written and the story makes you wonder. Really enjoyed this little gem. Abe Lincoln's success formula and others are filled with common sense tactics to leading a rich life. Looking forward to using some of these pearls and passing this book on to those I care about. Gold Nugget of a book!
January 3, 2017
The message of this speech which Russell gave over 5500 times over the years, is something we all could learn from and continue to relearn. Appreciate what we have and resist the urge to search afar for fortune in whatever form. I’m reminded about a couple of lines from a old Zen poem, "How sad that people ignore the near / And search for truth afar: / Like someone in the midst of water / Crying out in thirst, / Like a child of a wealthy home / Wandering among the poor.'
August 20, 2016
This book speaks of looking at your life and having a go at making it better. It encourages people to succeed. I really liked it. It is a classic for a reason. If you like to keep yourself motivated you can't go wrong with this one. 4 stars.
February 27, 2013
Good advice in knowing and using the resources all around you.
April 10, 2022
Very uplifting story of how he followed his heart and built a legacy.
January 31, 2017
This speech-to-text conversion of the words of a Philadelphian will give you a message long known yet frequently forgotten, in less than 50 pages.
May 16, 2019
A very Christian book, but there is a lot to learn in the first quarter of the book.
August 7, 2023
Quite the nifty little book
March 16, 2012
An Inspiring Story
For some reason, the simplicity of the standard “success story” conjures the hopeful sentiment that such accomplishments could occur in any life. Truthfully, most successful stories begin with an idea, a notion of which all human beings are equally capable. In Acres of Diamonds, Russell Conwell utilizes positive and negative narratives in order to inspire productivity in his community.
In Defense of Wealth
Simply speaking, Conwell is pro wealth. While many theologians and ethicists warn society about the dangers of increasing riches, Conwell believes that Christians possess an ethical duty to be rich. He writes:
“Money is power, and you ought to be reasonably ambitious to have it. You ought because you can do more good with it than you could without it. Money printed your Bible, money builds your churches, money sends your missionaries, and money pays your preachers, and you would not have many of them, either, if you did not pay them… The man who gets the largest salary can do the most good with the power that is furnished to him. Of course he can if his spirit be right to use it for what it is given to him” (13).
Viscerally, such statements seem disconnected with reality. Many people would love to make as much money as possible but do not possess the opportunities to do so. However, when charitably considered, Conwell’s philosophy seems sensible to a certain extent.
First, Conwell’s opinions resemble pro-business theological arguments. Many Christians affirm profit, arguing that it is an integral piece of the marketplace puzzle. However, profit ought not to be an end; profit ought to be made with the purpose of serving others. How is this position different than Conwell’s where he suggest that the rich can do more good in the world with money? It isn’t.
In many ways, Conwell’s theory resembles the first two bullet points in John Wesley’s economic theory: one, gain all you can; and two, save all you can. Once made rich by gaining and saving, a Christian is capable of doing good deeds in the world. This notion of good resembles Wesley’s “give-all-you-can” principles minus the all-you-can part.
The Problem of Systemic Injustice
Nevertheless, Conwell’s position on wealth is untenable because it disregards the concept of systemic injustice. Certain people who possess the desire and talent to succeed in business will never find the opportunity. In Conwell’s mind, such poverty is attributed to a lack of belief or a lack of trying. Given our economic system, it is important to remember the role of profit and to do good things when in positions of power. But, Christians also ought to campaign against systemic injustice in order to provide opportunity for those with a will but without a way.
Acres of Diamonds inspires people to pursue wealth. I am not convinced this position is correct. Conwell’s writing carries the foundations of prosperity gospel, a worrisome theology which focuses on wealth creation as evidence of faithfulness. Acres of Diamonds is an influential work and therefore ought to be studied. However, if you are uninterested in the relationship between theology and economic theory, avoid this book.
Originally published at http://wherepenmeetspaper.blogspot.com
For some reason, the simplicity of the standard “success story” conjures the hopeful sentiment that such accomplishments could occur in any life. Truthfully, most successful stories begin with an idea, a notion of which all human beings are equally capable. In Acres of Diamonds, Russell Conwell utilizes positive and negative narratives in order to inspire productivity in his community.
In Defense of Wealth
Simply speaking, Conwell is pro wealth. While many theologians and ethicists warn society about the dangers of increasing riches, Conwell believes that Christians possess an ethical duty to be rich. He writes:
“Money is power, and you ought to be reasonably ambitious to have it. You ought because you can do more good with it than you could without it. Money printed your Bible, money builds your churches, money sends your missionaries, and money pays your preachers, and you would not have many of them, either, if you did not pay them… The man who gets the largest salary can do the most good with the power that is furnished to him. Of course he can if his spirit be right to use it for what it is given to him” (13).
Viscerally, such statements seem disconnected with reality. Many people would love to make as much money as possible but do not possess the opportunities to do so. However, when charitably considered, Conwell’s philosophy seems sensible to a certain extent.
First, Conwell’s opinions resemble pro-business theological arguments. Many Christians affirm profit, arguing that it is an integral piece of the marketplace puzzle. However, profit ought not to be an end; profit ought to be made with the purpose of serving others. How is this position different than Conwell’s where he suggest that the rich can do more good in the world with money? It isn’t.
In many ways, Conwell’s theory resembles the first two bullet points in John Wesley’s economic theory: one, gain all you can; and two, save all you can. Once made rich by gaining and saving, a Christian is capable of doing good deeds in the world. This notion of good resembles Wesley’s “give-all-you-can” principles minus the all-you-can part.
The Problem of Systemic Injustice
Nevertheless, Conwell’s position on wealth is untenable because it disregards the concept of systemic injustice. Certain people who possess the desire and talent to succeed in business will never find the opportunity. In Conwell’s mind, such poverty is attributed to a lack of belief or a lack of trying. Given our economic system, it is important to remember the role of profit and to do good things when in positions of power. But, Christians also ought to campaign against systemic injustice in order to provide opportunity for those with a will but without a way.
Acres of Diamonds inspires people to pursue wealth. I am not convinced this position is correct. Conwell’s writing carries the foundations of prosperity gospel, a worrisome theology which focuses on wealth creation as evidence of faithfulness. Acres of Diamonds is an influential work and therefore ought to be studied. However, if you are uninterested in the relationship between theology and economic theory, avoid this book.
Originally published at http://wherepenmeetspaper.blogspot.com
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March 9, 2017Mind awakening powerful message so many nuggets of truth and idioms. Must read!
Nuggets of Truth:
The man who inspires nobly is open to noble inspiration
In a deep silence
Marvelous heights you have attained
Naturally enough
Deep tenderness crept into his voice
Enthusiasm invites enthusiasm
I have a large hearted regard
Use illustrations that illustrate
Delightful and confident way
Delightfully terse common sense
Each illustration is a hammer in which I drive home a truth
I can see at a glance all that is and all that ever was
The vast number of people I have met and the infinite variety of things my observant eyes have seen give me my ceaseless flow of illustrations and my memory and my skill make admirable use of them.
Parenthetically remarks
Vocab word terse
There's an absolute simplicity about myself and my words. A man has no right to use words carelessly. He stands for that respect of words craftsmanship.
Listening to me you begin to feel in touch with everybody and everything.
He said to me with deep feeling in one of his self revealing conversations
Everything should be so put as to be understood by all. Let me make this vividly clear.
He's good an enbuing others with happiness. He makes the church attractive. There is nothing of stiffness or constraint. No wonder the place is packed.
He's the good old man that brought me up as a boy.
I liked it intensely
This is an astonishing proof of your power
His sincerity is so evident in everything he does
Trust in God and do the next thing
A rich man I can turn to
In the depths of gloom
Superb optimism
We have been closely in touch for many years
Vaguely disturbed
I came to this city a stranger and won instant popularity
We got over our jealousy long ago
He's a delightful story after all these years
I dispense wit and wisdom
Staggering total
He's a man that doesn't know the meaning of rest
His modesty goes hand in hand with kindliness
Everywhere the man wins love
My dearest hope
I know and will admit I work hard. Things keep turning my way because I'm on the job
An odd trait of his character
When someone asks how are you reply full of strength and fire
I am the head of everything of which I am associated with
I talk with superb effectiveness
The demand for it never diminishes
It's a task and a duty
He has done such skillful work
It's a special opportunity to do good work
Nuggets of Truth:
The man who inspires nobly is open to noble inspiration
In a deep silence
Marvelous heights you have attained
Naturally enough
Deep tenderness crept into his voice
Enthusiasm invites enthusiasm
I have a large hearted regard
Use illustrations that illustrate
Delightful and confident way
Delightfully terse common sense
Each illustration is a hammer in which I drive home a truth
I can see at a glance all that is and all that ever was
The vast number of people I have met and the infinite variety of things my observant eyes have seen give me my ceaseless flow of illustrations and my memory and my skill make admirable use of them.
Parenthetically remarks
Vocab word terse
There's an absolute simplicity about myself and my words. A man has no right to use words carelessly. He stands for that respect of words craftsmanship.
Listening to me you begin to feel in touch with everybody and everything.
He said to me with deep feeling in one of his self revealing conversations
Everything should be so put as to be understood by all. Let me make this vividly clear.
He's good an enbuing others with happiness. He makes the church attractive. There is nothing of stiffness or constraint. No wonder the place is packed.
He's the good old man that brought me up as a boy.
I liked it intensely
This is an astonishing proof of your power
His sincerity is so evident in everything he does
Trust in God and do the next thing
A rich man I can turn to
In the depths of gloom
Superb optimism
We have been closely in touch for many years
Vaguely disturbed
I came to this city a stranger and won instant popularity
We got over our jealousy long ago
He's a delightful story after all these years
I dispense wit and wisdom
Staggering total
He's a man that doesn't know the meaning of rest
His modesty goes hand in hand with kindliness
Everywhere the man wins love
My dearest hope
I know and will admit I work hard. Things keep turning my way because I'm on the job
An odd trait of his character
When someone asks how are you reply full of strength and fire
I am the head of everything of which I am associated with
I talk with superb effectiveness
The demand for it never diminishes
It's a task and a duty
He has done such skillful work
It's a special opportunity to do good work
March 4, 2019
"Jika Anda ingin menjadi besar, Anda harus mulai dari tempat Anda berada dan dengan apa yang Anda miliki, sekarang."
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Judul: Acres of Diamonds - Merengkuh Sukses Besar di 'halaman' kita sendiri
Penulis: Russell Conwell
Penerbit: @bukugpu
Tebal buku: 94 hlm
ISBN: 978-979-22-5105-1
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Pernahkah kamu mendengar nama Russell Conwell? Beliau adalah seorang atheis asal Massachusetts hingga Perang Saudara Amerika mengubahnya menjadi seorang pendeta Gereja Babtis. Beliau menjadi sosok yang pantas dikagumi atas banyak profesi yang pernah dijalaninya dan perkembangan yang beliau bangun di daerahnya.
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Ceramah Russell Conwell yang paling terkenal "Acres of Diamonds" sudah didengar oleh jutaan orang di Amerika dan diabadikan dalam buku tipis ini.
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Conwell mengajak kita untuk memulai kesuksesan dari diri kita sendiri dan di 'halaman' kita sendiri. Dalam buku ini Conwell menceritakan beberapa kisah tentang orang-orang yang kehilangan banyak harta di 'halaman' mereka dan orang-orang yang sukses namun di anggap biasa di 'halaman' mereka sendiri.
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"Kebesaran seseorang tidak dibentuk oleh jabatan tertentu melainkan oleh perbuatan-perbuatan besar yang ia lakukan dengan sarana seadanya dan oleh keberhasilannya dalam mencapai tujuan-tujuan besar dalam hidupnya."
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Apakah kamu bingung karena aku terlalu banyak mengutip kata halaman? Sesungguhnya buku ini membuka mataku dan memberi motivasi pada diriku agar memulai kesuksesan sejak dini di tempat kita sendiri.
.
"Orang besar yang sesungguhnya terlihat sederhana, jujur, dan biasa-biasa saja."
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Buku ini tidak membosankan dan bisa mengisi waktu senggang kamu yang bosan baca fiksi
.
Judul: Acres of Diamonds - Merengkuh Sukses Besar di 'halaman' kita sendiri
Penulis: Russell Conwell
Penerbit: @bukugpu
Tebal buku: 94 hlm
ISBN: 978-979-22-5105-1
.
Pernahkah kamu mendengar nama Russell Conwell? Beliau adalah seorang atheis asal Massachusetts hingga Perang Saudara Amerika mengubahnya menjadi seorang pendeta Gereja Babtis. Beliau menjadi sosok yang pantas dikagumi atas banyak profesi yang pernah dijalaninya dan perkembangan yang beliau bangun di daerahnya.
.
Ceramah Russell Conwell yang paling terkenal "Acres of Diamonds" sudah didengar oleh jutaan orang di Amerika dan diabadikan dalam buku tipis ini.
.
Conwell mengajak kita untuk memulai kesuksesan dari diri kita sendiri dan di 'halaman' kita sendiri. Dalam buku ini Conwell menceritakan beberapa kisah tentang orang-orang yang kehilangan banyak harta di 'halaman' mereka dan orang-orang yang sukses namun di anggap biasa di 'halaman' mereka sendiri.
.
"Kebesaran seseorang tidak dibentuk oleh jabatan tertentu melainkan oleh perbuatan-perbuatan besar yang ia lakukan dengan sarana seadanya dan oleh keberhasilannya dalam mencapai tujuan-tujuan besar dalam hidupnya."
.
Apakah kamu bingung karena aku terlalu banyak mengutip kata halaman? Sesungguhnya buku ini membuka mataku dan memberi motivasi pada diriku agar memulai kesuksesan sejak dini di tempat kita sendiri.
.
"Orang besar yang sesungguhnya terlihat sederhana, jujur, dan biasa-biasa saja."
.
Buku ini tidak membosankan dan bisa mengisi waktu senggang kamu yang bosan baca fiksi
November 2, 2017
Two huge takeaways from this book that I loved. Read the stories though still to get the full effect:
1) Don't go searching for "diamonds" in other areas. Take advantage of where you are right here and right now. Consider what's under your feet and in front of you right now. Don't get caught up in other endeavors outside of your "territory" but focus on what you can impact here and now. Very good practical application to focusing on your work, your company, and your clients here and now.
2.) In your work, find a need in your community. Don't assume what people need while wasting your time working in that area. Ask others what they need. Create value for others. Create a service or product that fills a void in the marketplace and people will flock to it.
1) Don't go searching for "diamonds" in other areas. Take advantage of where you are right here and right now. Consider what's under your feet and in front of you right now. Don't get caught up in other endeavors outside of your "territory" but focus on what you can impact here and now. Very good practical application to focusing on your work, your company, and your clients here and now.
2.) In your work, find a need in your community. Don't assume what people need while wasting your time working in that area. Ask others what they need. Create value for others. Create a service or product that fills a void in the marketplace and people will flock to it.
July 1, 2018
Two brothers buy a Victorian house at a bargain price and discover that its turn-of-the-century charm includes the deadly ghost of the previous occupant. Matheson, as usual, does a great job with this ghost story that goes beyond the basics. The brothers have a love connection that is perhaps a little two close for siblings, and the ghost of Clarissa getting between them is definitely a jealousy-inducing event. Clarissa is definitely a carnal ghost, and she possesses both brothers in turn. I found this short story to be a page turner and worth the read.
November 22, 2017
This is really about looking for what you have right around you, and being capable of being in control of your life. It is within everyone's grasp to make the most of what is right in your "backyard". I think it's a good one to read, and full of good little stories, but it is what you make of it.
December 5, 2017
Another self help classic in the public domain, this text is essentially the transcript of Conwell's popular lecture on the subject of success. If you are struggling to find the right opportunity, its certainly worth a read to refocus your attention on the opportunities that may be right under your nose.
July 30, 2019
A short and quick read. This book was highly recommended from Dan Miller, one of my favorite mentors for business success. Its full of inspiration about how you might be sitting on top of your own fortune, if you simply tap into what you already have.
April 21, 2025
Very short book that you can probably finish in about 30 minutes. There reminded me of the alchemist by PAOLO COELHO where the protagonist looks for this treasure only to realise that the treasure was always where his home was or something like that if I remember the book correctly. I think the concept in this book was paraded across multiple universities when it first came out maybe 100 years ago. Essentially it’s about realising that there are acres of diamonds surrounding us. We just have to learn to use those opportunities. Miracles after all are just moments with crowns on :) Here are the best bits from the book:
A diamond is congealed to a drop of sunlight
One of the best things in our life is when a young man has earned his own living, and when he becomes engaged to some lovely young woman, and makes up his mind to have a home of his own.
Now what is my lesson in that incident? It is this: I told her then though I did not know her, what I now say to you: your wealth is too near to you. You are looking right over it.
When you say a woman doesn't invent anything, I ask, Who invented the Jacquard loom that wove every stitch you wear? Mrs. Jacquard. The printer's roller, the printing-press, were invented by farmers' wives. Who invented the cotton-gin of the South that enriched our country so amazingly? Mrs. General Greene invented the cotton-gin and showed the idea to Mr. Whitney, and he, like a man, seized it. Who was it that invented the sewing-machine? If I would go to school tomorrow and ask your children they would say, "Elias Howe."
He was in the Civil War with me, and often in my tent, and I often heard him say that he worked fourteen years to get up that sewing-machine. But his wife made up her mind one day that they would starve to death if there wasn't something or other invented pretty soon, and so in two hours she invented the sewing-machine. Of course he took out the patent in his name. Men always do that.
Well, I went in and sat down on the edge of a chair, and wished I were in Europe, and the man at the table did not look up. He was one of the world's greatest men, and was made great by one single rule. Oh, that all the young people of Philadelphia were before me now and I could say just this one thing, and that they would remember it. I would give a lifetime for the effect it would have on Our city and uncivilisation. Abraham Lincoln‘s principle for greatness can be adopted by nearly all. This was his rule: whatsoever he had to do at all he put his whole mind into it and held it all there until that was all done.
A poor man in Massachusetts who had worked in the nail-works was injured at thirty-eight, and he could earn but little money. He was employed in the office to rub out the marks on the bills made by pencil memorandums, and he used a rubber until his hand grew tired. He then tied a piece of rubber on the end of a stick and worked it like a plane. His little girl came and said, "Why, you have a patent, haven't you?" The father said afterward, "My daughter told me when I took that stick and put the rubber on the end that there was a patent, and that was the first thought of that." He went to Boston and applied for his patent, and every one of you that has a rubber-tipped pencil , in your pocket is now paying tribute to the millionaire. No capital not a penny did he invest in it. Always income all the way up into the millions.
But remember that if you are not great before you get the office, you won’t be great when you secure it. It will only be a burlesque in that shape. Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but really consists in doing great deeds with little means and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life. To be great at all one must be great here, now.
A diamond is congealed to a drop of sunlight
One of the best things in our life is when a young man has earned his own living, and when he becomes engaged to some lovely young woman, and makes up his mind to have a home of his own.
Now what is my lesson in that incident? It is this: I told her then though I did not know her, what I now say to you: your wealth is too near to you. You are looking right over it.
When you say a woman doesn't invent anything, I ask, Who invented the Jacquard loom that wove every stitch you wear? Mrs. Jacquard. The printer's roller, the printing-press, were invented by farmers' wives. Who invented the cotton-gin of the South that enriched our country so amazingly? Mrs. General Greene invented the cotton-gin and showed the idea to Mr. Whitney, and he, like a man, seized it. Who was it that invented the sewing-machine? If I would go to school tomorrow and ask your children they would say, "Elias Howe."
He was in the Civil War with me, and often in my tent, and I often heard him say that he worked fourteen years to get up that sewing-machine. But his wife made up her mind one day that they would starve to death if there wasn't something or other invented pretty soon, and so in two hours she invented the sewing-machine. Of course he took out the patent in his name. Men always do that.
Well, I went in and sat down on the edge of a chair, and wished I were in Europe, and the man at the table did not look up. He was one of the world's greatest men, and was made great by one single rule. Oh, that all the young people of Philadelphia were before me now and I could say just this one thing, and that they would remember it. I would give a lifetime for the effect it would have on Our city and uncivilisation. Abraham Lincoln‘s principle for greatness can be adopted by nearly all. This was his rule: whatsoever he had to do at all he put his whole mind into it and held it all there until that was all done.
A poor man in Massachusetts who had worked in the nail-works was injured at thirty-eight, and he could earn but little money. He was employed in the office to rub out the marks on the bills made by pencil memorandums, and he used a rubber until his hand grew tired. He then tied a piece of rubber on the end of a stick and worked it like a plane. His little girl came and said, "Why, you have a patent, haven't you?" The father said afterward, "My daughter told me when I took that stick and put the rubber on the end that there was a patent, and that was the first thought of that." He went to Boston and applied for his patent, and every one of you that has a rubber-tipped pencil , in your pocket is now paying tribute to the millionaire. No capital not a penny did he invest in it. Always income all the way up into the millions.
But remember that if you are not great before you get the office, you won’t be great when you secure it. It will only be a burlesque in that shape. Greatness consists not in the holding of some future office, but really consists in doing great deeds with little means and the accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life. To be great at all one must be great here, now.
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