The word almost is defined as “not quite, very nearly.” Almost is a small and simply defined word but it can have a tremendous impact- both positive and negative- on your life. Almost can possibly be the most painful word ever created. It means you were so close but something happened. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it can be.
When dealing with past loves, you start to question everything and that small little word starts playing tricks on your mind. Why was I almost good enough? We were almost close to solidifying our relationship, what went wrong? I almost got the guy, what happened? We almost kissed, why did he stop? Does he not like me; was there something in my teeth? We almost had this picture-perfect life together, but what went wrong?
When dealing with loss, that same word causes you to replay scenarios in your mind over and over again. I almost passed her in the last 100 meters but my legs gave out. I almost scored but the goalie just hit the ball hard enough for it to go out. I almost caught the softball but the sun was in my eyes. I almost dove for the volleyball but I hesitated and didn’t get there in time.
There are many scenarios you can put almost in. That word has a funny way of making a harrowing pain last longer and feel deeper. Almost will keep you up at night wondering why you didn’t do this or that. It is a constant reminder that you weren’t meant to be with him, be the champion or be successful. It’s a tiny word that brings on excruciating thoughts, memories and dreams; the kind you incessantly worry about day in and day out.
The next time you start thinking about almost winning, almost getting that guy or almost being successful, remember that whatever is happening in that moment is teaching you a lesson that you will be grateful for later on. Yes, it can be hard seeing the positives in an almost situation because of your clouded tunnel vision, but everything will be okay and life will go on. Almost winning the game this year might result in a state championship next year or almost getting that guy will teach you that he wasn’t the one for you or almost being successful will make you realize that specific job saved you from choosing the wrong career path.
With the bad comes the good. There are many positive reasons as to why almost is a good thing to happen in your life. Although these positive almost moments usually go unrecognized because of lack of pain, it is nice to acknowledge them because they are there. The car almost hit you, you almost hit the deer, you almost went out with the guy that has a cheating reputation, you almost scored in your own goal or you almost cut your finger with a knife when dicing tomatoes. The list of almost saving you is endless and can be beneficial to your life.