"Words for teenagers" response- 8/24/15

I think that the judge has a point that some people tend to reach for excuses for their failures and shortcomings rather than owning up to their mistakes and trying to improve themselves.  I also agree with the sentiment that the world doesn't owe you anything, and if you want to be successful and live a happy life, you have to assert yourself and give your energy, time, and talent.  Without doing these things, there is no way for you to accomplish anything meaningful.  However, I do think that the judge is also a little too harsh in that he implies that the world is ruthless and makes it sound like you are a terrible person if you don't do everything you are 'supposed to do'.