エピソード

  • Better Late Than Never: Why Its Never Too Late to Pursue Your Dreams and Achieve Success

    Better Late Than Never: Why Its Never Too Late to Pursue Your Dreams and Achieve Success
    2025/05/24
    Welcome, listeners. Today we’re delving into the phrase “better late than never”—a saying rooted in centuries of wisdom that still resonates, perhaps now more than ever. The phrase, a direct translation of the Latin proverb *potiusque sero quam nunquam*, was popularized in English by Geoffrey Chaucer in his “Canterbury Tales” back in 1386. When we say “better late than never,” we’re acknowledging that it’s preferable to act, learn, or succeed late than to never try at all, reminding ourselves that the journey is often more important than the timetable.

    This spirit is alive in the stories of late bloomers and comeback tales that inspire us to keep going. Consider Mary Mandell’s reflection, published earlier this year, on the beauty of blossoming after society’s presumed deadlines. She discovered that embracing her path as a late bloomer brought fulfillment—not despite missing traditional markers of success, but because of the lessons and connections she fostered along the way. At 70, she writes about still feeling youthful and energized, proving there isn’t one timeline for achievement.

    There are countless examples of individuals making their mark after setbacks or later in life. Think of Vera Wang, who designed her first wedding dress at 40. Or Colonel Harland Sanders, who franchised his first KFC in his sixties. Each of these stories reminds us that success isn’t linear, and societal pressures to hit milestones by a certain age often hold us back more than any real limitation.

    Right now, with the world changing rapidly—whether it’s technological shifts, economic upheavals, or global events—many are forced to pivot, retrain, or simply start over. It’s easy to feel like opportunities have passed us by. But as today’s phrase reminds us, taking a step forward, even if it’s overdue, is an act of courage and hope.

    If you’re listening and feeling like you’ve missed your chance, remember: the world is full of second acts, fresh starts, and unexpected victories. The calendar doesn’t define your dreams. Whatever your goal, it’s better late than never. So take that step, however small. Your story isn’t finished yet.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Better Late Than Never: How Embracing Life's Unexpected Timeline Can Lead to Extraordinary Personal Growth and Success

    Better Late Than Never: How Embracing Life's Unexpected Timeline Can Lead to Extraordinary Personal Growth and Success
    2025/05/21
    Welcome listeners. Today, we’re exploring the enduring phrase “better late than never,” a saying that encourages us not to give up, even if we’re not right on schedule. With roots tracing back to both classical Latin—Titus Livy wrote potiusque sero quam nunquam, meaning it’s better to do something late than never at all—and English literature, where Geoffrey Chaucer echoed the sentiment in The Canterbury Tales, this idiom has inspired countless individuals to persevere against the odds.

    While society often places a premium on early achievement, many powerful stories remind us that second chances and late starts can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Columnist Mary Mandell, writing in January 2025, shared her journey as a proud late bloomer. She found true happiness and fulfillment after stepping away from conventional benchmarks, focusing instead on personal growth and relationships. She discovered that embracing life’s timeline—however unpredictable—was itself a gift.

    Recent news continues to underscore this theme. Just this spring, headlines have been filled with stories of innovators and activists embarking on new projects or careers later in their lives. For instance, Common Dreams reported renewed efforts by older environmental advocates who, despite decades of setbacks, continue to push for stronger climate action. Their perseverance is proof that no matter how delayed, meaningful contributions can still shape the world.

    Yet, societal pressures can be overwhelming. Many of us are told there’s a narrow window for success—that it’s too late to start over, change careers, or pursue passions. But “better late than never” reminds us otherwise. Whether you’re launching a new business at 60, learning a skill for the first time, or reconciling with a loved one after years apart, your effort still matters.

    So to all listeners who feel they’ve missed their moment: remember, every day is a chance for renewal. Success, fulfillment, and meaning don’t have expiration dates. Take that first step, however late it might seem, and you may find your greatest achievements are yet to come.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Late Bloomers Rejoice: How Age is Just a Number in Pursuing Your Dreams and Finding True Success

    Late Bloomers Rejoice: How Age is Just a Number in Pursuing Your Dreams and Finding True Success
    2025/05/17
    Welcome to "Second Wind," where we explore life's unexpected journeys.

    The phrase "better late than never" has ancient roots dating back to Latin, first appearing in Titus Livy's "History of Rome" around 27 BCE as "potiusque sero quam nunquam." Geoffrey Chaucer introduced it to English in 1386 in "The Canterbury Tales," reminding us that doing something late is better than not doing it at all.

    This timeless wisdom speaks directly to our theme of second chances. Consider Mary Mandell, who at 70 years old still embraces her identity as a "Late Bloomer." She discovered that this path brought her true happiness, deeper relationships, and continuous personal growth. Her story reminds us that life doesn't follow a prescribed timeline.

    Society often pressures us to achieve milestones by certain ages—career success by 30, family by 35, financial security by 40. These arbitrary deadlines can leave many feeling they've missed their opportunity when they don't meet these expectations.

    But history is filled with late bloomers who defied convention. Julia Child published her first cookbook at 49. Vera Wang began designing at 40. Samuel L. Jackson didn't land his breakout role until his 40s.

    The corporate world also demonstrates this principle. As recently as April 2025, the aerospace industry faced unprecedented uncertainty after new tariffs were implemented. Yet companies continue to adapt and evolve, proving it's never too late to change course.

    What matters isn't when you begin, but that you begin at all. The journey of the late bloomer offers unique advantages—wisdom from varied experiences, clarity about personal values, and resilience built through life's challenges.

    Remember, your timeline is yours alone. Whether you're starting a new career, pursuing education, or rekindling an old passion, embrace the wisdom of "better late than never." Your second act might just be your greatest yet.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Better Late Than Never: Embracing Second Chances and Finding Success at Any Age

    Better Late Than Never: Embracing Second Chances and Finding Success at Any Age
    2025/05/14
    Welcome, listeners. Today, we’re diving into the meaning behind the timeless phrase “better late than never,” a saying that encourages us never to give up, no matter how delayed our journey might feel. The roots of this idiom reach all the way back to ancient Rome, where the Latin proverb potiusque sero quam nunquam expressed the same belief that it’s better to act late than not at all. Geoffrey Chaucer later brought it into English literature in his Canterbury Tales, writing, “for better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period.” Even centuries ago, people understood the immense value in perseverance and second chances.

    In a world obsessed with early achievement and youth, it’s easy to feel defeated if your breakthrough hasn’t come on the expected timeline. But some of the most inspiring stories come from those who found their path later in life. Mary Mandell, writing earlier this year, reflected on her own journey as a so-called “late bloomer.” She found that the extra time gave her space for genuine happiness, deeper relationships, and continual growth. At 70, she feels energized and purposeful, proving that fulfillment is possible at any age.

    Societal pressures can be fierce, pushing us to believe there’s a deadline for pursuing our dreams. But the reality is, opportunities don’t expire unless we let them. Whether you’ve faced setbacks, changed careers, or discovered your passion later than others, your timing is uniquely yours. The phrase “better late than never” is not just a consolation but a rallying cry to keep going, to act, to try—no matter how late it may seem.

    So if you’re listening and feel like you’ve missed your chance, remember this idiom’s enduring wisdom. Every step forward counts, and it’s never too late to make a difference, to start again, or to succeed. As history and so many personal stories remind us, the door to success remains open for as long as you choose to walk through it.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Better Late Than Never: Inspiring Stories of Success Beyond Traditional Timelines and Second Chances

    Better Late Than Never: Inspiring Stories of Success Beyond Traditional Timelines and Second Chances
    2025/05/03
    Listeners, today we’re diving into the meaning and power behind the phrase “better late than never,” a saying familiar in daily life and rooted in history. Originally a Latin proverb—“potius sero quam numquam”—it was popularized in English by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century’s Canterbury Tales. Chaucer used it to remind us that while doing something late isn’t ideal, it’s still preferable to never doing it at all.

    This phrase embodies the spirit of second chances and the incredible force of perseverance. Just think of those who the world calls late bloomers. Mary Mandell, writing in early 2025, described being a late bloomer as a gift. She found that success, happiness, and deep relationships often come not from meeting early benchmarks, but from embracing the value in personal journeys, no matter their timeline. At age 70, she feels energized by the endless possibilities that still lie ahead, proving you’re never too old or too late to thrive.

    Recent headlines highlight similar stories: entrepreneurs launching businesses in their fifties, artists finding recognition in retirement, and individuals returning to education after decades away. Societal pressures often insist that if you haven’t “made it” by a certain age, your window has closed. But these stories shatter that myth. They demonstrate that setbacks aren’t failures, but opportunities for growth. Whether it’s passing an exam after years of struggle or finally sending that overdue letter, as many idiom dictionaries note, these acts deserve acknowledgment—better late than never.

    If you’ve felt like the door to your dream is closed, remember this isn’t just a phrase. It’s encouragement. Even if you arrive at your goal later than planned, you still arrive. No clock, no calendar, and no set schedule can define your journey’s worth. As Chaucer implied over six hundred years ago, not succeeding at all is far worse than being late. So, whatever you’re considering, take the step. Life’s always offering second chances, and it’s never too late to begin anew. Better late than never.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Better Late Than Never: How Embracing Second Chances Can Unlock Your Potential and Rewrite Your Life Story

    Better Late Than Never: How Embracing Second Chances Can Unlock Your Potential and Rewrite Your Life Story
    2025/04/30
    Today we're exploring a phrase that's resonated through the centuries: "Better late than never." This timeless idiom, which means doing something late is better than not doing it at all, has fascinating origins dating back to ancient Rome.

    The phrase is actually a direct translation of the Latin "potiusque sero quam nunquam," first appearing in Titus Livy's "History of Rome." It entered English literature through Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" in 1386, where he wrote, "For better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period."

    Listeners, how often have we hesitated to pursue a dream because we felt the moment had passed? Society often imposes timelines on our achievements, making us believe opportunities expire. But countless stories prove otherwise.

    Just this month, in April 2025, we saw a powerful testament to second chances in an op-ed from a young person who found their path through JCCA's Second Chances program. After facing setbacks, they gained the skills and confidence to advocate for themselves, eventually securing employment and a promotion at Luna Park in Coney Island—something they never imagined possible before.

    This story reminds us that personal timelines aren't fixed. Some of history's most celebrated figures achieved success later in life. What matters isn't when you begin, but that you begin at all.

    For those feeling discouraged about missed opportunities, remember that perseverance often matters more than perfect timing. Whether you're returning to education, changing careers, or healing relationships, embracing the spirit of "better late than never" can transform regret into possibility.

    So if you're hesitating to take that first step because you feel it's too late, today might be the perfect day to start. After all, better late than never.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Never Too Late: How Persistence Proves Success Has No Age Limit or Expiration Date

    Never Too Late: How Persistence Proves Success Has No Age Limit or Expiration Date
    2025/04/19
    Welcome, listeners. Today we’re exploring the timeless phrase: “Better late than never.” Originating from the Latin “potiusque sero quam nunquam” and popularized in English by Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, this idiom reminds us that pursuing a goal is always worthwhile—no matter when we start. Society often amplifies the pressure to achieve success by a certain age, making those who stumble or change paths feel like their time has passed. But history and recent events counter that idea at every turn.

    Take Tony Gwynn, a baseball legend, who made over five thousand outs in his career but treated each setback as essential to his ultimate triumphs. His perspective shows that every misstep can be a stepping stone, not a stop sign. Or consider Mary Kay Ash, who faced years of rejection before founding her namesake beauty company at a time when few women led businesses. She started at 45, bet her savings on her dream, and built a billion-dollar empire powering the careers of hundreds of thousands.

    Recent news is filled with these late bloomers and comeback stories. Francesca Cabrini, for example, faced relentless rejection before finally succeeding, her persistence echoing the core message of “better late than never.” It’s easy to overlook the fact that Ukraine’s military revival, as discussed recently by Britannica, resulted not from immediate victory but from years of reform and resilience—proof that steady progress, even if delayed, can eventually turn tides.

    These stories remind us that there is no expiration date on ambition. Life rarely follows a straight path. Whether you’re changing careers, going back to school, healing relationships, or chasing a dream deferred, remember that the act of starting—or starting again—is what counts. Let go of the myth that you’ve missed your moment. Instead, let perseverance guide you. Listeners, if you feel behind, remember: success is not about early wins; it’s about endurance, adaptation, and the courage to begin, no matter the hour. After all, better late than never.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Better Late Than Never: How Second Chances and Perseverance Can Transform Your Life Journey

    Better Late Than Never: How Second Chances and Perseverance Can Transform Your Life Journey
    2025/04/16
    Welcome, listeners. Today, let’s explore the message behind the phrase “better late than never,” a saying that has echoed through centuries and speaks to the power of perseverance and second chances. The phrase’s roots stretch back to Latin—*potius sero quam nunquam*—and it was popularized in English by Geoffrey Chaucer, who wrote, “For better than never is late; never to succeed would be too long a period.” In simple terms, it reminds us that achieving something late is still better than not trying or succeeding at all.

    Society often tells us there’s a right time for everything. Finish school by 22, land your dream job before 30, or launch your business young. But history and our everyday lives are filled with stories that prove otherwise. Consider the writer who recently shared her journey in amNY, recounting how a second chance through a support program changed her future. Nervous and uncertain, she joined a community initiative designed to help young people find their footing. Through mentoring and workshops, she learned to advocate for herself, built confidence, and ultimately landed a job that’s now led to a promotion—something she never imagined before receiving that second chance.

    This is just one story among many. Famous examples abound—authors like Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first book at 65, and Colonel Sanders didn’t franchise Kentucky Fried Chicken until he was in his sixties. Their achievements remind us that the path to success isn’t always linear or bound by age.

    Yet, societal pressures can make people feel like they’ve missed their moment if they fall behind. Remember: only a few people reach every milestone “on time.” Many face setbacks, detours, or simply discover new passions later in life. The phrase “better late than never” isn’t just a consolation; it’s a call to action, urging you to begin, to try, to keep going, even if the world says you’re late.

    So, to all listening who feel behind or discouraged—your timeline is your own. Each day is a new opportunity for a fresh start, no matter when you begin. Better late than never.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分