Over my desk is a square card that reads:
What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?
It’s a great question for me, and for you too – especially if you’re sprouting grey hairs and applying eye wrinkle cream.
The idea of tackling something radically new can feel remote or downright scary, especially for a mature adult, set in their ways. Yet, scientists promise us that our brains have neuroplasticity, or the ability to change and adapt throughout life.
I am fortunate to have two sisters who are amazing models that you are never too old to learn new tricks or trades. One started competing in triathlons in her 60s. The other produced her first documentary film, also in her 60s, and sold out her first screening to an auditorium of 500.
For me, the experiences that open up channels in my brain and encourage me to try new things are connected to consciousness-expanding substances. Surprising me and those who know me, I have picked up water-coloring and poetry-writing. Please note that the last time I did art was in kindergarten, and while poetry is closer to the joy I get from stringing together words, it’s new and unexpected. Trust me – I’ve taken many assessments over the years and none have called me artistic or creative!
What I love about these new pursuits is that “I cannot fail.” The products of my efforts are definitely not begging for – or deserving of – accolades. But the acts of painting and poetry-writing simply fill me up.
On a recent beautiful MDMA (*) roll with my love, I began sketching my favorite Morningside Park tree and then writing this poem spontaneously:
See? It’s impossible to fail. So, I ask you: What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?
(*) Newbie Note: MDMA is not a plant medicine, but rather is a psychoactive medicine that is known to enhance empathy, happiness, and connectedness. MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters. In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) designated MDMA-assisted psychotherapy as a breakthrough treatment for PTSD. If you’d like to learn how to enjoy MDMA safely and responsibly, I recommend Charles Wininger’s book: Listening to Ecstasy.
