Gabrielle reflects on her violin playing and thinks, “It was a disconcerting feeling – knowing that your one chance at achieving something great was already over.” How did you react to this statement? Is it possible for one’s career to peak too soon, and if so, how does one move on?
I think, like Walter, it may be a matter of finding a new purpose and a new sense of meaning. While reading this book and while watching the Olympics I have been thinking of this very thing. If one thing defines you, it will be very hard to cope when you no longer feel fulfilled or satisfied with yourself by that thing.
I can understand being disappointed and giving up. But in the end I would hope anyone would try again. Hopefully getting help from friends. Just rethinking the problem and realizing how much you loved what you did.
I think life, like books, is filled with many chapters. Reaching a goal in one chapter just leads you to the next, it doesn’t end or define your story. I am a huge believer in “the best is yet to come.”
As I read this book the Winter Olympics were proceeding in Italy. I am sure there were many athletes who felt they had missed their opportunity for greatness. Yet, we also were treated to several stories of participants who had failed in the past but this time finally achieved their dreams of a medal or just performing their best on the world stage. Sometimes it seems there is only that one chance but I believe in second chances, maybe even a different path to high achievement.
I don’t think I can express my thoughts about this subject any better than Michelle S above. Same with Catherine_O_Callagha. You both said it so well!