I love being 50.

One of the things I love most about being 50 is that I spend a lot less time trying to figure out who I am.   That’s because I’ve had the opportunity to figure out a lot about who I am not.   I’ve made a lot of mistakes.   I love mistakes.

Several years ago I decided to learn how to be a potter.  My biggest lesson was I’m NOT a potter.

When I was an undergrad, I wanted to be the next Jane Pauley (some of ya’ll might need to Google her <grin>).   So I studied broadcasting, and worked for a TV station.  Actually I worked for two – I was fired from the first one.  Anywhoooooooooooo… after three years on the air, I learned I’m not a broadcaster.

One time I was on retreat at a Cistercian monastery.   After a VERY early morning chanting service ended, one of the monks let me know (in the nicest possible way) that  silence was sometimes appropriate.  I learned (again) I’m not a singer.

These and many more mistakes have taught me that paying attention to what I’m not is at least as important as paying attention to what I am.

So here’s what I know:  I’m not a potter – I am a great paper maker;   I’m not a broadcaster – I am good at one-on-one conversation;  and I’m not a singer – I listen VERYwell!

Yep, I love mistakes.   Each one teaches me.   Each one guides me.  I can’t wait to make more!

So what have your mistakes taught you?