It’s Not What You Are – updated 2017
What did you want to be? Once in a while I think of all the careers I
could have had, what I could have achieved.
When I was a kid most people said I should be a lawyer because I could
argue so well. I never wanted to become a lawyer. I did, however, want
to be President since my parents were such big fans of JFK at the time
and it seemed a very cool thing to be.
I have been told that I should have been a therapist. I have never wanted
to be a full-time therapist, but I did want to be a preacher. I like the idea
of thinking deep thoughts and then telling other people about them.
I have been told I should have been a masseur. I never wanted to be a
full-time masseur, but I did want to take classes and learn more. I haven’t
done that yet.
I had the heritage that said maybe I should be a pilot. I never wanted to
be a full-time pilot, but I always loved to fly and see the world from above
in a small plane. I don’t fly anymore, but maybe someday I will again.
I was told I should be a teacher. I actually was a teacher at the college
level for 9 years. I loved it. I tried to land a full-time job as a teacher and
never made it. I miss being a teacher and perhaps will again someday.
I was never told I should be an artist. Do you know why? Because everyone
already knew I was going to be an artist. I don’t think anyone ever thought
I would not be an artist. I am glad I am an artist.
It doesn’t mean there aren’t other things I wish I could have done and been.
I think any curious and enthusiastic person has more things in their wish
list than they can actually accomplish in one life.
I prefer that to having no wish list.
What did you want to be?
“It’s not what you are, it’s what you don’t become that hurts.” – Oscar Levant