The garden in Yogi Raman’s fable symbolizes the mind and the promise that “if you cultivate it just like a fertile, rich garden, it will blossom far beyond your expectations” (41). Julian explains that most people do not tend their mind-gardens and let contaminants “wreak havoc” (42). Getting into the habit of positive thinking and working toward “mental mastery” (44) can unlock a person’s potential. Julian tells the story of Malika Chand, a Calcutta teacher whose school was burned down by an arsonist and how her positive thinking turned this tragedy into an opportunity to raise funds for a better school.

Julian tells John that growth comes from persevering through challenges rather than by living in plateau. This prompts John to reflect on his childhood dreams and curiosity that have been stifled as an adult. Julian challenges John “to dust off your dreams […] Start to revere life again” (49). Inner change is the key to external change, and self-created boundaries hinder potential. To master one’s own mind requires concentration. Through concentration one finds the secret to happiness, which is to “find out what you truly love to do and then direct all of your energy towards doing it” (55).