My notes from Chapter 2 of Orison Swett Marden’s brilliant “Pushing to the front” – “The Boys with no chance”.

It is not every calamity that is a curse, and early adversity is often a blessing. Surmounted difficulties not only teach, but hearten us in our future struggles – SHARPE

A poor start can lead to future success. If there seems like there is no chance, then be assured that there is always some, don’t be disheartened. History shows that adversity, when faced, breeds determination and determination breeds success. If you face adversity boldly, it places you on a level playing field with some of the greatest and most succesful people in all of our history. Thomas Edison started out as a newsboy and went on to become one of the greatest scientists and inventors that the world has know. If you don’t have the money or resources to start what you want to do, the start by studying – read and learn. The chances are, you will find your purpose, then be single minded, and the rest will follow. Diligence and perseverence, as they meet with opportunity, will offset whatever kind of start you have had in life.

Many of the world’s most powerful and successful people started with some major disadvantage before they came to their success. There is no such thing as ‘no chance’, it is just a question of being ready to take the one’s that present themselves.