n's parents were poor. The renowned
Jeanne d'Arc fed swine. Christine Nilsson was a poor Swedish peasant,
and ran barefoot in childhood. Edmonia Lewis, the colored sculptor,
overcame the prejudice against her sex and color, and pursued her
profession in Italy. Maria Mitchell, the astronomer, was the daughter
of a poor man who taught school at two dollars per week. These are but
a few of the many who have struggled with fate and risen to distinction
through their own personal efforts.

Opportunities? They are everywhere. "America is another name for
opportunities. Our whole history appears like a last effort of divine
Providence in behalf of the human race." Never before were there such
grand openings, such chances, such opportunities. Especially is this
true for girls and young women. A new era is dawning for them.
Hundreds of occupations and professions, which were closed to them only
a few years ago, are now inviting them to enter.

When I hear of a young woman entering the medical profession, or
beginning the study of law, or entering school with a view to teaching,
I feel like congratulating her for thus asserting her individuality.

We cannot all of us perhaps make great discoveries like Newton,
Faraday, Edison, and Thompson. We cannot all of us paint immortal
pictures like an Angelo or a Raphael. But we can all of us make our
lives sublime, by _seizing common occasions and making them great_.
What chance had the young girl, Grace Darling, to distinguish herself,
living on those barren lighthouse rocks alone with her aged parents?
But while her brothers and sisters, who moved to the cities to win
wealth and fame, are not known to the world, she became more famous
than a princess. This poor girl did not need to go to London to see
the nobility; they came to the lighthouse to see her. Right at home
this young girl had won fame which the regal heirs might envy, and a
name which will never perish from the earth. She did not wander away
into dreamy distance for fame and fortune, but did her best where duty
had placed her.

If you want to get rich, study yourself and your own wants. You will
find that millions have the same wants. The safest business is always
connected with man's prime necessities. He must have clothing and a
dwelling; he must eat. He wants comforts, facilities of all kinds for
pleasure, luxuries, education, and culture. Any man who can supply a
great want of humanity, improve a