I feel I am defined by my mistakes
More easily than by my successes.
By times when I could not rise to the stakes;
Times when I gave into my excesses.I say this not because of self loathing,
Or due to obsessive ideation.
Nor, wearing pride like ill fitting clothing,
As an imposter venting frustration.My mistakes are the crux of my story;
The arc starting the path to what’s in store.
At present, they seem ugly and gory.
In hindsight, they’re the path to being more.In making mistakes, if you cannot learn,
Success is impossible to discern.
– Shaman Romney 2018
Shame on The Universe 
What do you think?