When you're poor, you know nothing about the future, you know nothing about the world, nothing that goes on outside 300 yards around you.

In this quote, Lee Trevino reflects on the limitations that come with poverty and how it can shape a person’s view of the future and the world. He suggests that when you are poor, your perspective is often confined to a small, immediate environment, typically around you and your immediate circumstances. The lack of access to resources or opportunities can make it difficult to look beyond the present and imagine a broader or more hopeful future, leading to a sense of isolation from the wider world.

Trevino’s words also touch on the concept of ignorance or a lack of exposure to the broader aspects of life outside of a limited socioeconomic situation. When people are struggling to survive or meet basic needs, the outside world—whether it’s politics, culture, or global events—can seem distant or irrelevant. The "300 yards around you" metaphorically represents the small, confined space within which individuals in poverty might focus their attention, limited by their immediate concerns and the challenges they face daily.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Trevino's personal experiences growing up in poverty. As a professional golfer, Trevino’s rise to fame was remarkable, considering he came from humble beginnings. His journey from growing up in a poor neighborhood to becoming one of the most successful golfers in history gives him a unique insight into how economic hardship can limit a person's worldview and opportunities.

Ultimately, Trevino’s words serve as a reminder of how poverty can shape a person’s access to the world and their ability to envision a future. His perspective encourages empathy for those in similar situations and highlights the importance of providing opportunities for individuals to expand their horizons beyond their immediate circumstances, allowing them to see and engage with the world in a broader way.