But he'd learned long ago that a life lived without risks pretty much wasn't worth living. Life rewarded courage, even when that first step was taken neck-deep in fear.

Meaning: Someone overlooked or unsuccessful may yet have a favourable moment. Present circumstances need not define every later opportunity, though a good turn is not guaranteed.

Meaning: The end of one opportunity can leave room to pursue another. A closed route need not mean that every worthwhile direction is closed.

Meaning: An urgent unmet need can make a seemingly formidable barrier feel surmountable. Hunger breaking stone walls is an exaggerated picture of desperation or determination.

Meaning: Decisive action can create opportunities that hesitation misses. Courage may help someone benefit from an opening, though it cannot control luck or guarantee success.