Chance favours the prepared mind

The two chances were there for me to seize. I took them but was not well prepared beforehand on both occasions. Botched two perfectly good chances. On the other hand, I was well-prepared for the chances to happen. I just did not prepare what to do when the chances came. Banking on the clock-like precision of the bus timings, everything went according to plan, only for me to bungle it all. Then again, I was courageous enough to seize the moment.

While waiting for the next chance to appear, I have to prepare myself for it. When it does come, I must be able to recognize it and muster enough courage to do what has to be done.

Chance -- I realized -- when it comes, also favours the brave.

The World Today in History
On Jan. 3, 1959, President Eisenhower signed a proclamation admitting Alaska to the Union as the 49th state.