I. Have you ever lost a chance because of doubt? Cried because of missed opportunities?
These moments
are like monsters under our bed that hinder over our ambitions. I’ve always believed that everything
happens for a reason—and I still do! But it's true, life does feel unfair when others seem to have the
universe watching over them while others are left with nothing but uncertainty. And this, ladies and
gentlemen, brings us to untaken chances, where the decisions we did not make shape our life just as
much as those we did.
II. Standing here today is actually a wonder to me. Because, before attending college, I had no clear
vision of what I wanted or who I wanted to become. The pressure to define my path was tiring and
complicated, especially when everyone around me seemed to have it all figured out.
III. Being a friend, a child to your parents, a partner to your significant other—these roles can either uplift
us or weigh us down. Each interaction is a chance to define ourselves and to make choices that align
with our values and dreams. Yet, doubt often creeps in, whispering that we are not good enough, that
we will fail, and that someone else will always be better.
IV. I‘ve missed chances because of this doubt. Self-doubt. I‘ve stood on the sidelines, watching
opportunities pass by in front of me. And yes, I’ve cried several times over these missed opportunities,
mourning the possibilities that could have been. I always look back and wonder, “What if?” “What if I
had the courage?” “What if I was confident enough?” “What if I stood on my ground and did not let
others create a path for me?”.
V. But here’s the catch: sometimes, untaken chances are lessons, not losses. Each missed opportunity can
shape and push you to reflect and to be bolder the next time opportunities are served at the table. It‘s
also where true growth happens. When we face our fears head-on, we begin to see the silver lining and
see that these challenges thrown at us are rocks that we can use as stepping stones to build a stair
towards our dream.
VI. Life is not about never missing an opportunity again but about learning from those we do miss or let
go. Acknowledging these gives us the chance to live more authentically. Because what is life if there
are no risks to take? Remember, every missed opportunity is a chance to ask ourselves in front of the
mirror and evaluate our path. Are we toward something even more meaningful? So, let’s turn those
losses into lessons, and let our untaken chances guide us to greater things.
