He shakes his head slowly.
Confused, I look at Maestro Leo.
Master Nosh states firmly, “Life is not a series of successes and failures, Mr. Davis. It is a classroom of experiences.”
The concept feels alien to me.
He continues, “What you deem as ‘failure’ is actually an experience meant for you to learn from, so you can make the necessary adjustments in order to move forward.”
He gives me a grave look. “Normally, I dismiss people like you, Mr. Davis—individuals that are so intent on the goal that they can see nothing else and miss countless opportunities for growth.”
Master Nosh then leans forward. “However, you are different. While you are certainly goal-oriented, you do accept correction without letting it offend your ego.”
Looking directly into my eyes, he states, “What concerns me more is that your hatred of failing caused you to question your fitness to be a Dominant so profoundly, that you were willing to walk away without consulting the trainers in charge of you.”
He leans back in his chair. “That comes from either extreme arrogance or an utter lack of confidence.”
My eyes blink slowly as I stare at him. I feel numb as I struggle to accept his statement.
“I personally have no patience for arrogance,” he declares sternly. “It is an affliction that cannot be fixed. But, I have never met a person with natural talent like yours who has no confidence in himself.”
“I have confidence.”
He raises an eyebrow. “One mistake and you were willing to walk away from it all.”
Damn, his words challenge me. However, I can offer no defense.
“Based on your scene today, do you feel you are fit to be a Dom?”
“Based solely on that, yes.”
“And, if you make another mistake…? Which you will,” he adds with emphasis.
I feel a constriction in my chest.
He looks at me thoughtfully. “Life is a series of experiences, Mr. Davis. Each one is meant to expand our minds and help us grow on our journey.”
Master Nosh folds his arms. “What life isnotis a checklist of successes and failures. That is linear thinking and impedes growth.”
I nod. “I hear what you are saying, Master Nosh. But it’s contrary to everything I know.”
“Here’s whatIknow, based on what I’ve seen” he replies. “You clearly understand that the submissive holds equal power in the dynamic, and you are comfortable with that. So comfortable, in fact, that you accept your role as alpha and are adept at directing scenes that incorporate the mutually set parameters to the benefit of yourself and your sub. That is the key to a successful D/s dynamic.”
I have no words and feel humbled by his statement.
“The Center has two choices, Mr. Davis. We can accept your wish to leave training based on your actions last night. Or we can offer you a second chance, with the expectation that you will move forward with confidence—nota fear of failure.”
I look at them both, surprised they are giving me this second chance.
“I would like to stay.”
“Fine. Then we will see you this evening.”
I stand up and leave his office, completely stunned.
Breathless
Ican’t let it go.