Opportunity
An inspiring poem reminding us to recognize and embrace life's opportunities.
Updated February 17, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Opportunity is something that knocks on everyone's door, yet not everyone recognizes it. Some say that only a lucky few are given real chances in life, while others believe that success is handed out unevenly. But the truth is, opportunity is not reserved for the privileged—it is available to anyone willing to seek it, work for it, and embrace it.
No matter where you come from, whether you were born into wealth or faced hardships from the start, the path forward is shaped not by where you begin but by the choices you make. Many feel trapped by their circumstances, believing that their background defines their future. Yet history is filled with people who broke free from limitations, proving that determination, effort, and faith can open doors once thought impossible.
Berton Braley’s poem reminds us that opportunity is not something we wait for—it is something we create. The best ideas are still waiting to be imagined, the greatest songs have yet to be sung, and the biggest dreams are yet to be fulfilled. If you ever feel discouraged or think that all the chances in life have passed you by, remember that every new day brings fresh possibilities. Success is not about luck; it is about perseverance, belief, and taking that first step forward.
Let this poem be a source of encouragement, a reminder that the best is yet to come. May it inspire you to take hold of the opportunities before you and turn them into something great!
The Poem: Opportunity
With doubt and dismay you are smitten
You think there's no chance for you, son?
Why, the best books haven't been written
The best race hasn't been run
The best score hasn't been made yet,
The best song hasn't been sung,
The best tune hasn't been played yet,
Cheer up, for the world is young!
No chance? Why the world is just eager
For things that you ought to create.
Its store of true wealth is still meager
Its needs are incessant and great
It yearns for more power and beauty
More laughter and love and romance,
More loyalty, labor and duty,
No chance-why there's nothing but chance!
For the best verse hasn't been rhymed yet,
The best house hasn't been planned,
The highest peak hasn't been climbed yet,
The mightiest rivers aren't spanned
Don't worry and fret, faint hearted,
The chances have just begun,
For the Best jobs haven't been started,
The Best work hasn't been done
Key Messages in this poem:
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Opportunities Are Endless
The world is full of untapped potential; the best ideas, achievements, and successes are still waiting to happen.
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Mindset Shapes Your Future
Doubt and discouragement can make you believe there are no chances left, but in reality, opportunity is everywhere—you just have to see it.
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Effort and Creativity Open Doors
The world is always looking for new ideas, innovation, and determination. Those who are willing to put in the work will find endless possibilities.
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Every Day is a Fresh Start
No matter where you are in life, new chances are ahead. Yesterday’s missed opportunity does not mean tomorrow’s success is out of reach.
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Success Comes to Those Who Try
The best work has yet to be done, the greatest dreams have yet to be realized—so don’t sit back and wait. Step forward, take action, and make the most of every opportunity.
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Conclusion
Opportunity is not only something we hope will show up, it is something we notice and respond to. This poem reminds us that the world still needs new ideas, new efforts, and new hearts willing to try. When doubt whispers that it is too late, remember that the best work may still be ahead of you. Keep learning, keep showing up, and take one step at a time. With faith, effort, and courage, you can turn a simple chance into a new beginning.
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