THE WILL TO WIN

Taranaki Daily News, 23 March 1932, Page 5

THE WILL TO WIN

BUSINESSMAN’S APPEAL. CALL FOR OPTIMISM. Auckland, March 19. In times when an atmosphere of darkest gloom envelopes the community, a flash of bright, cheery optimism from a qualified exponent comes as an invigorating tonic. Such was the refreshing note struck by Mr. Ernest Davis, a leading Auckland businessman, when addressing a large gathering of members, players and supporters of the Auckland Football Association at their annual meeting. Speaking with deliberation and impressive assertiveness to a gathering which was largely composed of men of a younger generation, Mr. Davis said: “There is one thing about a game of football which no one can deny; a team to bo successful, must be optimistic. Whoever heard of a football team winning with their tails down? This is a psychology which many people in business here to-day could well apply to their morals. Many people in this community lately seem to be ‘dropping their bundles.’

“I am rather appalled in some cases at the weaknesses shown. I grant it is easy to moralise, and that the outlook of those out of work is one of utter bleakness, and, in these times, too terrible for words, they have my utmost sympathy; but there are many I know of to-day who have much to be thankful for, and who, by their pessimism, are not standing up to the traditions of our forefathers, the pioneers of old, who made this land worth while.

“Speaking to you young men, full of resolution to win out in your game, I would suggest that you, in your everyday walk in life, show that British grit and optimistic spirit are something which will, even in a small way, help to restore the confidence of the community in general, and which is so necessary before we can enjoy even a measure of comfortable times. Speaking as a businessman, although it may appear that we are going to have a bad winter, I firmly believe that by the end of this year we will see things steadied, and a general improvement all round. I am not speaking without the book or without thought, but I am convinced that although we may not see those socalled prosperous days, when we were all living on other people’s money, wo will have learnt the lesson of economy, and have commenced to enjoy a fair measure of comfortable times once more.” The tenor of Mr. Davis’ remarks was cordially appreciated by the large gathering.