By Sean Fagan
 

Below, is a brief clip from a great film (One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest)

In this scene, Jack Nicholson attempts to win a bet by lifting a water fountain.

It's a great clip, have a look...

*Please excuse the coarse language.

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When Jack fails to lift the water fountain he exclaims to his fellow patients..."at least I tried God damn it, at least I did that".

The above quote perfectly encapsulates an age-old truth - when we attempt something difficult, something that challenges us - we are going to occasionally fail.

The longer I live the more I see the potentially positive role that failure plays in the grapple for success.

Bushcraft is a perfect example.

Anybody that honestly endeavours to push their bushcraft skills and knowledge in a variety of trying scenarios and environments is going to fail quite a bit - no matter how careful and meticulous they may be.

It's the nature of the beast...

..and a necessary learning curve.

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Being positive when things are going good is all fine and well - but being determined and proactive when things are going against you is another animal altogether.

But what other choice is there?

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Interestingly, subsequent to Jack Nicholson's failed attempt to lift the water fountain, his fellow patients drew inspiration from his failed effort - and began to stand up against the oppressive, authoritarian system they were in.

That's the other thing about trying your best - it can inspire others.

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“Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker" ~ Denis Waitley

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