Stricken with rickets, attention deficit disorder, a severed facial nerve, and being voted "most likely to end up in the electric chair" by his
fifth grade class, this individual triumphed over many obstacles. As an aspiring writer and actor he was rejected as an extra in the film The Godfather
and was persuaded to switch careers for more realistic goals. Sparks of genius were recognized in his script writing, but he was told only legitimate actors would have a chance at performing the title roles.
This man's intelligence and insight were constantly discounted. Even with these early setbacks, he received a scholarship to study acting at the American College in Switzerland. In less than three days,
he wrote a screenplay that would eventually win an academy award for best picture. The lead character became a metaphor for struggle and the will to achieve, not because of his success, but because of his failure.
Reflecting on the success of his labor, he deemed his films "exuberant morality plays" and likened them to the Koran and Buddhist teachings.
After gaining recognition for his early film success, this
man actually used his facial deformity as a platform of brand recognition. Despite being pigeonholed by many critics, he became a neo-expressionist painter and sculptor whose works have sold for more than $40,000.
I've learned from him that success often comes from truly understanding the basic goals and desires of man. This man is Sylvester Stallone and his academy award winning film is Rocky.
