SUCCESS = Ambition to rise

I have been here in Amsterdam for past one week in connection with the GBIF Governing Board meeting. As I discussed with locals here about the history, culture, and progress of the Netherlands, some interesting facts startled to impress me. The Netherlands got its name from its unique geographic feature. It is the landmass which is below sea level. More than 25% of Netherlands land is below the sea level, and the highest pick in the Netherlands reaches only 321 meters. Schipol airport which is one of the busiest airport in Europe lies 14 feet below sea level.

This raises question in my mind, how a country which is below sea level, which has 24X7 danger of being flooded and washed away can be one of the one prospering nation. How can be a culture which is in danger of being uprooted by slightest natural disaster is so very cordial, hormonal and peaceful. As I discussed more and explored, I got my answer. And what a simple answer "Ambition to rise"!

This low lying landmass and people inhibiting the same realized that if they need to survive and prosper, they need to rise above with passionate ambition and determination, so they build the dikes. It just signifies that if you have passion to survive and prosper, you would have courage to breed the ambition, and unshakable determination to succeed. Thus,

SUCCESS = AMBITION TO RISE!