We all admire those individuals who see things that others may not and then have the courage to take action.  Whether it is an opportunity in business, an opportunity to help someone in need, an opportunity to alleviate the suffering of others, or an opportunity to inspire those who are down and almost out.

As we continue on our journey to build and strengthen our character, it is the combination of vision and the courage to take action that we most often find at the foundation of opportunities that make a positive impact on individuals, organizations and our world.

Among all the stories that were told a few weeks ago while celebrating the life of Muhammad Ali, there was one story that was not often shared, but speaks to vision and the courage to take action to make a positive impact in our world.

The story of Chuck Wepner, the Bayonne Bleeder, who knocked down Muhammad Ali in the 1975 title fight.  Ali went on to win the fight with a technical knockout in the 15^th and final round.  It was while observing that fight, Sylvester Stallone was inspired to write the story of Rocky. He spent the better part of three straight days writing the script immediately after the fight.  He then persevered through countless rejections of the script until he finally landed a studio contract.  The movie went on to have a major impact in the box office and in the lives of so many people.

Some thirty years later, most of us still get a little inspiration when we hear the theme song to Rocky.

Most people were just watching a great fight between Muhammad Ali and the Bayonne Bleeder, but one individual, Sylvester Stallone, saw something that others did not and then had the courage to take action.

As we look to build and strengthen our character through the ability to see what needs to be done and then getting things done, here are a few thoughts along the way:

• Are we just along for the ride in our lives at home, at work and in our community or are we looking for the opportunity to make a positive impact?
• Are we just watching or are we looking with an eye towards finding a more effective way?
• Are we seeing hope and inspiration or are we seeing fear and doubt?
• Are we just talking about an opportunity or do we have the courage to step in the ring and take action?

As we become more proactive in looking for an opportunity to make a positive impact and we develop the courage to take action, we will continue to build and strengthen our character and Character Creates Opportunity® to reach our full potential and have a positive impact on those around us.