"Sometimes opportunity knocks, but most of the time it sneaks up and then quietly steals away"

Doug Larson's quote, "Sometimes chance knocks, however the majority of the time it sneaks up and after that silently steals away", encapsulates a profound observation about the nature of opportunities in life. At first look, the stating challenges the common metaphor of opportunity as something that honestly emerges, offering one a clear signal to do something about it. Rather, Larson suggests that opportunities are often subtle and quickly overlooked.

The preliminary phrase, "Sometimes opportunity knocks", acknowledges that there are indeed moments when chances are obvious and direct. These are the occasions or scenarios that plainly require our attention-- maybe a job offer, an unforeseen windfall, or a fortuitous meeting. Such opportunities belong to a loud, discernible knock at the door, where the option to engage or advance is clear and unmistakable.

However, the core of Larson's observation lies in the latter part: "the majority of the time it sneaks up and then quietly takes away". This recommends that chances often manifest in less obvious ways. They might emerge from everyday interactions, subtle shifts in scenarios, or downplayed moments. These chances require a level of listening and understanding to recognize. The description of chance as something that "slips up" suggests stealth and suggests that it can go unnoticed unless one is vigilant.

Moreover, the concept that opportunity can "silently take away" stresses the transient nature of these possibilities. Time is typically restricted, and opportunities do not linger; as soon as missed out on, they may vanish as silently as they appeared.

This quote serves as a suggestion to cultivate awareness and be watchful of life's subtler opportunities. It motivates proactivity and the capability to look beyond the obvious, urging us to establish a severe sense of mindfulness and preparedness. By doing so, we improve our ability to capitalize on the myriad opportunities that life offers, even those that do not announce themselves with a conspicuous knock.