Chord books and online lessons are a start, but you really need to get a good instructor. Before anyone jumps, I realize not everyone needs an instructor, but most of us, including myself can't tie our shoes without a picture, need one to get off to a good start. Just make sure he teaches theory along with the guitar. Don't get one that just teaches songs or you will end up learning to play just those songs. You want the ability to play any song.

I know good instruction cost money and you can't expect anyone to work for free. So, if you really have the desire to learn the guitar, you will find a way to earn the money for lessons. Don't expect for someone to pay for them. It's your dream, no one elses! You need to also pick up the guitar and learn some things on your own. No one can learn it for you.

Go ahead and get a 101 chord book or a Mel Bay book and start doing something now. Work on the lessons later. Just for fun. What chords can you play in progression without losing a beat? Can you play C, G, G7, C7, D, D7, Dm, F, F# ? If not, why not? You would be amazed of how many songs you play with C, G, and D only! You can Google chords, lyrics, tabs, and about anything to do with any song.

I maybe wrong, which I seldom am (that's a joke so don't get you bowels in an up roar), but I get the feeling you are dragging your feet. Learning to play the guitar is not that difficult, learning to play it well is. So, what are you going to do? I know in today's world everyone is busy, but I'm sure you can find half an hour each day to practice and learn something. Just skip watching a little television or miss a meal or video game, or whatever!

Ever hear the joke about the man on street stops another guy and asks, "How do you get to Cargnie Hall?" The man replys, "Practice, practice, practice!" If you want it bad enough, you will find a way, but it is up to you to do it.

Oh yeah, remember the old man sitting on the front porch in the movie "It's a Wonderful Life"? He yelled to Jimmie Steward and Donna Reed (I know Jimmie who? Donna?) "Kiss her!" and then he said, "Youth is wasted on the young!" Ain't it the truth?