After a family vacation in 1951 left Kemmons Wilson disappointed by the quality of roadside motels, he founded Holiday Inn in 1952. Wilsons frustration created a vision and a burning desire to change things for the better.

By 1968 the Holiday Inn chain of motels was the largest in the world with over 1,000 locations. It’s a pretty remarkable story considering how the founder started his life.

Kemmons Wilson never knew his father. He died when little Kemmons was only nine months old. Wilson grew up in poverty. He started working odd jobs and delivering newspapers at a young age. He dropped out of high school so he could help his family even more than he already was.

Every obstacle he faced could have deterred Wilson, but it didn’t. He had no college degree, no connections and no money. But he had a strong work ethic, and he had a love for business. God equipped him to change the way families traveled the world. Businessmen, too.

We have an element in society who believe the world owes them something. The world is hard. The strong not only survive, they thrive. Fortunately most people still value hard work and dedication.

Kemmons Wilson passed away in 2003. He left a business legacy few people may ever attain. But his story remains one of inspiration and never allowing lack to stop us.

Life is tough. Be tougher…