Malt in the Light of Evolution 



which we form some relationship, and the close- 

 ness of the relationship determines how large 

 a part each object shall play in it. Surroundings 

 are the material from which we select a very 

 small part out of which to frame our environ- 

 ment. To this environment once chosen, framed, 

 and accepted, we will surely conform. Sur- 

 roundings therefore, as has been said, spell op- 

 portunity, but environment spells doom. 



If this be true, it follows that improvement 

 of surroundings is no guarantee of improved 

 environment. Improved surroundings mean re- 

 moval of obstacles to progress and greater oppor- 

 tunity. If the individual is already intent upon 

 making the very best possible use of his sur- 

 roundings, this is all that is necessary. If he 

 does not care for better things or will make no 

 resolute effort to attain them, if he is not mak- 

 ing at least fair use of that which he has, farther 

 opportunities will benefit him little. 



All the treasures of art, science, and religion 

 are wasted on the man who does not care to 

 think about them, or who allows his mind to 

 become so occupied with other things that he 

 has no time to notice them. Wealth, learning, 

 and mental discipline are all opportunities which 



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