how to iterate from a specific point in a sequence (Python)
<p><strong>[Edit]</strong></p>

<p>From the feedback/answers I have received, I gather there is some confusion regarding the original question. Consequently, I have reduced the problem to its most rudimentary form</p>

<p>Here are the relevant facts of the problem:</p>

<ol>
<li>I have a sorted sequence: <strong>S</strong></li>
<li>I have an item (denoted by <strong><em>i</em></strong>) that is GUARANTEED to be contained in <strong>S</strong></li>
<li>I want a <strong>find()</strong> algorithm that returns an iterator (<strong><em>iter</em></strong>) that points to <strong><em>i</em></strong></li>
<li>After obtaining the iterator, I want to be able to iterate FORWARD (BACKWARD?) over the elements in <strong><em>S</em></strong>, starting FROM (and including) <strong><em>i</em></strong></li>
</ol>

<p>For my fellow C++ programmers who can also program in Python, what I am asking for, is the equivalent of:</p>

<pre><code>const_iterator std::find (const key_type&amp; x ) const;
</code></pre>

<p>The iterator returned can then be used to iterate the sequence. I am just trying to find (pun unintended), if there is a similar inbuilt algorithm in Python, to save me having to reinvent the wheel. </p>
