What Would You Be...?, by Elisa Fischer

What Would You Be...?

empowering women, families, and youth-at-risk through improved literacy, increased positive media, and tools for living.

By Elisa Fishcer

“What would you do or who would you be if you knew you could not fail?”

The question is an interesting one that definitely merits some deep thought. Ten years ago, I may have answered by saying that I wanted to become a naturalist working to save the environment; five years ago, a professional concert violinist. If someone were to pose this question to me today, however, I know what my current response would be: “I would be precisely the person I am now.”

It is certainly exciting to imagine an existence with no limitations and boundless creative opportunities, but, when one really pauses to consider the possibility of such a life, it becomes apparent that never experiencing failure might bring with it more grief than happiness. When I look back at my own life I realize that my failures are what have continued to truly define my existence. It was through experiencing adversity that I was forced to grow and think and mature. My disappointments motivated me to move forward and achieve success in interests that I may not have explored otherwise. It was also through failure that I learned to build a strong work ethic and have empathy for others.

Sure, it might be fun to be playing for the San Francisco Symphony right now instead of applying for jobs at the mall, but inside that highly successful musician would be a sad and isolated human being. If it was guaranteed that I would succeed at everything I tried, I would have no understanding of why others struggled. I would become lethargic and indifferent because I would never be afraid of falling behind. So yes, I am proud to call myself a failure and know that I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Elisa Fischer is a St. Mary’s graduate currently residing in Concord. Her interests include playing violin and viola, reading, creative writing, and anything fantasy.