The story of Benjamin Roll, who lives in Newport Beach, California. In 1990, at the age of 67,
Roll graduated from law school. Naturally, before he could
start practicing law, he had to pass the California Bar
Examination.
- On his first attempt at the examination, he failed
- On his second attempt, he failed.
- And he failed the third time…
- the fourth time…
- the fifth time…
- the sixth time…
- the seventh time…
- the eighth time…
- the ninth time…
- the 10th time…
- the 11th time…
- the 12th time…
- and the 13th time.
Let me add one important fact: the Bar Examination is
given only twice each year. So, at the time of his 13th failed
attempt, Roll was now 73 years old. Most people would
have quit, but not Benjamin Roll!
He took the exam for the 14th time… and he passed! In
1997, at the age of 74, Roll was admitted to practice law in
the state of California. Now, here’s a guy who’s commit-
ted… and willing to do whatever it takes. As Roll
explained, “I was going to pass that cotton-pickin’ exam if
I lived long enough. And I did!”
Does this story tell you anything about the importance
of attitude? Most people wouldn’t even consider starting
law school in their 60s. Yet, here’s someone who not only
enrolled in law school, but was willing to spend six years
after graduation studying to pass the Bar Exam.
Wow! Benjamin Roll’s story is simply further proof that Perseverance is Everything.
