Falling Forward

“If one is to fall, fall forward; for when a person falls forward they are moving in the direction of progression.”

Ones initial reaction of viewing this quote will innately categorize it as a metaphorical statement. To go beyond the surface of the statement one must take a further look on the literal definitions of “fall” and “forward.” Oxford American dictionary has close to an entire page dedicated to the definition of the word “fall;” while the American Heritage Dictionary contains twenty four different definitions. The numerous definitions of the word “fall” shows that is applies to many different facets of life. The definition of “fall” quite literally means a physical falling, “to drop or come down freely under the influence of gravity.” There are, however, other definitions that are associated with this word: “to come to rest;” “to assume an expression of consternation or disappointment;” “to experience defeat or ruin;” “to lessen in amount or degree;” “to give into temptation;” or “to pass into a particular state, condition, or situation” as if to fall in love (AHD). The few definitions listed above shows that the word “fall” has both positive and negative consequential connotations. The word “forward” also has various definitions: “in the direction that one is facing or traveling;” “onward so as to make progress;” “toward a successful conclusion;” or “toward the future” and “ahead in time” (OXD). Now that the literal definitions have been identified the deeper meaning of the metaphor, “falling forward,” can be discussed.

Falling is inevitable because people are imperfect. Flaws, weaknesses, or mistakes that every human on earth has, does or makes will always result in a fall to some degree or another; what the individual does during and after the fall is of the most importance. What constitutes a fall? How can people fall? And what types of falls are there? The first type of fall that most often comes to mind are of the physical nature because humans literally fall. A child, for example, constantly falls amongst their discovery of learning how to walk. Other types of falls include: spiritual, emotional, mental, temporal etc. In addition, and as seen in the definitions above, there are negative and positive definitions of the word “fall.” However, when combined with the word “forward”even negative types of falling, like failure or sin, can be taken positively. Falling forward applies to every area of an individuals life.

Falling forward encourages positive thinking and the idea that an individual can accomplish any thing. Successful leaders, teachers, scientists, film writers, and athletes have applied falling forward into their lives. Take for example this quote from the 2008 Rocky Balboa film: “It ain't about how hard you you hit. It's about hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!” Rocky fell forward by never giving up even when was bludgeoned countless times while in the ring. His falling forward moment allowed his thoughts to focus on getting back up, no matter how hard the hits, to win his matches or to move on to the next. Falling forward is also within successful people who have disabilities. There are countless stories of people who have a handicap but still choose to participate in sporting events despite their current circumstances. These people chose to fall forward by still following their dreams and living life to its fullest.

United States citizens, and others throughout the world, have experienced the effects and consequences of the 2008 financial crisis; this event indeed was a great fall to the economy. Whether the people fall forward or continue do the same things that caused the crisis is their choice. They can fall forward by learning to live within their means and avoid any unnecessary future debt. They can be more honest within their business dealings. Thus learning from the past and changing ones negative habits, despite a financial defeat, is also another way to fall forward.

The various definitions of the word “fall” can be interpreted in a positive light when combined with the word “forward.” Falling forward reminds us to be positive, never give up, love your friends and family, learn from the past, and be the best person one can possibly be. The list of situations that are applicable to the phrase, falling forward, are endless. Falling forward provides hope and encourages faith to always move towards progress. May we all find ways to fall forward towards progression.

Moccasin Boy

Thursday, 21st May 2009

Another day completed at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce. Today I had the opportunity to attend their Executive Board Meeting. Board members have a wonderful responsibility to address ways by which to improve the mission and vision of the Chamber. Each board member represents a different genre of Arizona's business. All are experienced professionals in their field, so it is a true honor and pleasure to learn of them. Board member dynamics are especially interesting and fun to observe. It is quite refreshing to see that professionals are in fact, normal. I have come to also learn that they are able to effectively harmonize both work and play. Sophisticated humor is always in abundance and also a key integral part of success in all areas of life, especially during these hard economic times. One person in particular, with whom I admire, loves to use playful jargon, causing others to blush with a little embarrassment or to engage in jocular banter. I personally believe it is his way of testing people. By getting a reaction he is able to assess their characteristics.

His keen opportunistic eye is always on the lookout, ready to use his quick wit. Interns, of course, always seem like a good target. As I proceeded to pass materials around the long table he said, referring to my shoes, "Now as Ryan walks around the table pay special attention to his moccasins." Knowing that he has a particular knack against men wearing the color pink I quickly retorted, "You should see my pink shirt." I heard some chuckles from those within the reach of my voice.

Yes, the man was playfully joshing me about my shoes. But did I care, no way. Why should I? I actually thought his comment was quite funny; envisioning myself wearing moccasins in a business setting is humorous. Sure the temporary title of "Moccasin Boy" is a little ridiculous, but I know who I am. The general lesson I learned today was not to take life so seriously, nor to take offense of people's teasing. Life is strenuous enough as it is. Words of the teasing, crass, or hateful nature should be like water falling off of a duck's back. Let them roll right off. The 1940 political idiom would apply in this case: “If you can’t beat’em, join’em.” May we all add humor to our professional lives and learn to ignore an occasional joshing. Actually, Moccasin Boy has little ring to it. Say it with me, "Moccasin Boy!"