Henry Ford, Thomas Alva Edison, Andrew Carnegie and Charles Swabb—these are my all-time success story favorites. Their stories tell you of years of diligence, determination, perseverance and will power. They have triumphed over fate and have controlled the circumstances that have affected their existence. They did not let the external events to control their destiny. They were the ones who defined their destiny and became part of the long list of great men who inspired thousands and millions of people around the world. They are the Nouveau Riche of their time.

To be born poor and miserable is not bad, but to allow yourself to remain on your wretched condition perpetually is what make your situation an unpardonable mistake. Ours is a country that offers lots of golden opportunities. You only need to grab the urgency of the moment, have a clear vision and work for this vision. I am always inspired every time I hear great tales of success such as those of our present day billionaires like Gates, Bolkiah and Walt. They are only a few of the Nouveau Riche of our time. Among the Nouveau Riche which I particularly admire for their extraordinary diligence and ingenuity are Kenneth R. Thomson and Gerald Govesnor. The former control much of the assets in the Thomson Corporation, Hudson’s Bay Corporation and Markborough Properties; whereas the latter has real estate holdings in Mayfair and Belgravia, including real estate in certain States of the United States of America.

Certainly, it is the character of a wise man to aim for something nobler and better. To be successful in whatever aspects of our life really gives essence to our existence. At any rate, we are all aiming for happiness.