Well, Frank, I hope you won't think me presumptuous, since I have never met you, but you seem to have a LOT going for you, and you have a lot of intelligence, wit, and desire. Those things coupled with some stubbornness, or whatever that word is, I know -- PERSISTENCE --- will help you to achieve the things that you would like.
One of the guys I work with had this quote on a little, smashed piece of paper in his pack; he carried it with him everywhere. So, I copied it, and now carry it with me everywhere. I really think it is true:
PERSISTENCE
Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education alone will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.It says Calvin Coolidge (a U.S. President who was known for his quiet stubbornness) is the source, but I woudn't know for sure if that is accurate. No matter, I like it! Sometimes, it gives me a much-needed reminder to just keep working toward the things I think are important.... just a jab for me to try to keep things in persepctive.