Life in the Palmetto State: Is opportunity dead?

Market share, bottom line and corporate greed are phrases just under the currents on the sea of frustration. It's only in turbulent times they surface. They are harsh, though, just the same.

It seems like hard work and sheer determination are not enough to make it in today's business climate anymore. In my lifetime, I have seen a determined individual make it and make it big on a shoestring budget and a work ethic that outshines the sun.

It used to be a family could contribute their time, energy and focus on a common goal and make a huge impact.

I remember well the days of the mom-and-pop business that was based on a smile and a handshake. I remember the days when credit was based on if the business owner knew you and you were good to your word - not what your credit score showed.

Maybe opportunity is not the right phraseology, but in an effort to draw attention to this disparity, I think it will suffice.

You see, in my mind, opportunities are based on what you make of them. Not some brass ring that is so far out of reach and reality for the common man or woman that they can't even jump to reach it. I liken it to an attic door with the ladder still in the up position. We can see the dream but can't reach the steps that will take us there.

Nowadays, undercapitalization is the biggest obstacle. Start-up costs are so ridiculous; it almost seems impossible to get past. That presents the first roadblock.

Then of course there are the government regulations that completely weigh you down. If you get past your banking issues, then government throws every curve ball they can to strike you out.

Then if you are fortunate enough to get past those imposing issues, there are input costs, taxes and insurance. Don't forget labor and finding people to work. They have a way of sucking the last bit of green off your balance sheet.

Where would we be if the entrepreneurial spirit had died in our countrymen and the immigrants that made our nation great?

I have sounded negative enough. Time for some positive thoughts.

We still live in the greatest nation in the world. If you can make it anywhere, you can make it in our United States.

We are so fortunate to live where we do and enjoy the blessings the good Lord gives us and our great nation!

How do we remedy the situation?

First off, let's remember who brought us to the dance.

Those determined individuals that went before us and had a dream that worked out, study them. Pick their brains for all the knowledge they will impart to you. If they are not willing to help, study them anyway. Don't reinvent the wheel.

Entrepreneurs, build a better mousetrap. Study the ones that are successful and figure out a way to do it better.

Be relentless. Give your idea the time to cook and make the stew.

Work for someone else until the timing is right. Then work your fanny off.

Last, but certainly not least, if you are one of those that made it, reach down and help someone struggling.

Send them work. Slide them some contacts and positive references. Help the determined ones that need a little shove to get them over the hump.

No, I know opportunity is not dead, just maybe disguised.

Don't give up. We still live in the land of opportunity. If you believe in it, someone, somewhere else will too.

Don't let anyone talk you out of your goals and dreams.

May God bless you!

Lee Reaves Jr. is president of Clarendon County Historical Society.