a person who is distinguished or prominent within a group

the shot hits the bird that pokes its head out; those who stand out or take the lead are the most likely to be targeted or criticized

Literal rafters that jut out rot first; figuratively, anyone who stands out or makes themselves a target by being conspicuous will be the first to be attacked or suffer.

to endure through a long, difficult period and finally reach a state of success or relief from hardship