Your friend also picks up the green grass by asking you about it, Mr. @galenkp.
You are absolutely right, and the saying always asks us to take the opportunities that come our way. I think an opportunity doesn't really come, we have to pick it up.
The analogy of seeing grass next to a hill is a vivid example. There is a chance to confirm it, but we are physically and mentally we must be prepared to explore the part of the hill that is full of risks.
But a risk is always worth the physical and mental sacrifice, right?
I once had to make a decision on getting people in my power to do things they didn't like. We agree on many things and mitigate risks together. In short, when we succeed, most of them say, "Why not from the beginning of the year we work on this good opportunity?"
It's looking for, and chasing, opportunities that has caused humanity to thrive, learn new things and develop as individuals and collectively. Of course, not everyone is that way inclined, some like to stay in place, to settle for whatever it is they have and that's ok too. There's always going to be those who rise to challenge and those who avoid it.