I love commencement addresses. As we listen to the accomplished speaker we get to reflect on life, our road traveled, lessons learned and wisdom we wish we had possessed at an earlier age.
Oprah Winfrey gave this year’s remarks at Harvard’s graduation. In addition to the successes the graduates will have, she reminded them that failure will visit them at some point. When it does she said to remember that failure is life trying to move you in a different direction.
This concept is an inspiriting way to look at failure. It means we keep moving, although on an alternative path. Often we think of failure and get stuck or stopped. We are unable to move beyond it or to stay in motion.
Thomas Edison is a great example of Oprah’s belief. Each time he worked on the incandescent light he discovered hundreds of ways that were incorrect. For over two years he kept trying different directions until one worked.
By keeping failure as a sight on our life journey where we will experience ups and downs, we maintain a broader perspective. It does not become the end destination because we can move in a different direction and explore other vistas.