"The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have"

The essence of this quote is all about making the most of what you've got. It’s not about lamenting the resources you lack or envying what others possess; it’s about leveraging your unique set of circumstances to achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life. In simple terms, it's like playing the hand you're dealt the best way you can.

This idea has resonated through history and personal experiences alike. Think back to the Great Depression. People had to make do with whatever they had — old clothes were patched up instead of being thrown away, and families grew their own food to get by. It was a tough time, but those who managed to thrive did so because they were resourceful and determined. They didn’t focus on what they didn’t have; they focused on making the most of what they did.

For a more modern and personal context, imagine a young entrepreneur named Sarah. Sarah didn’t have a lot of money to start her business. She didn’t have investors knocking on her door or fancy equipment. What she did have was a passion for baking and a small kitchen. So, she started small — really small. She baked cookies and cakes right from her kitchen, selling them to neighbors and friends. Slowly but surely, her business grew because she focused on what she could do, not what she couldn’t. Today, Sarah runs a successful bakery, and it all began with her using what she had at the start.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? First, take stock of your current resources and skills. Be honest with yourself. What do you have at your disposal? It could be anything from a supportive family to a knack for numbers. Next, think about how you can use those resources creatively. Maybe you can’t afford to go to college right now — can you take free online courses to learn new skills? Maybe you don’t have a big network — can you start by building strong relationships with a few people?

Let’s dive into a relatable scenario to bring this home. Picture this: You’re fresh out of college with a degree in graphic design, but you don’t have a job lined up yet. Instead of waiting for the perfect opportunity to come knocking, you decide to start freelancing. You’ve got a laptop, a decent internet connection, and the skills you’ve learned. You begin by designing logos for local businesses and creating social media graphics for friends. It's not glamorous, and it's certainly not easy, but it's a start. Over time, your portfolio grows, and so does your client list. You started with what you had, and you made it work.

In the end, it’s not about having the best of everything; it’s about making the best of everything you have. So, take a look around you, assess your situation, and go for it. The magic lies in your ingenuity and determination. Who knows what you’ll achieve?