One only has to read stories of successful people to know that adversity seems to be a common denominator of those who made it. Few successful people had success handed to them on a platter. Most worked, struggled and experienced their share of failures. What is different about these people is that they didn't let these adversities get in their way. They actually used adversity to build on. They turned their stumbling blocks into a paved highway to a better life.

It all boils down to choice. It isn't what happens to you that matters as much as what you do with what happens to you that makes difference. We have all met with disappointments, failures and challenges. The difference is some people let those events stop them while others use them to build a bridge and move on.

There are times when we can be in middle of what we think is an intelligent conversation and discover that we are not. Don't try to deal rationally with such a person. It won't work. Their only concern is themselves and their ideas. If they feel threatened in any way, they will attack. The best thing you can do is remove yourself from discussion. It is possible to continue conversation - only now it won't be an intelligent one.

Don't assume that everyone wants an intelligent conversation. There are people who are not capable. That doesn't mean that you won't be able to converse with them. It just means that conversation will be shallow and meaningless, which can be alright at times. Not every conversation has to be enlightening.