Intentional Failure: A Test of Integrity and Rebelliousness
Have you ever deliberately failed a test? Not necessarily in an academic context, but there have been times when I've walked away from manipulative social tests out of principle. I can't stand hinting or deceit, and I prefer to be upfront with the truth.
Bad information leads to bad decisions, and I'm okay with blunt honesty. Here are a couple of instances where I chose to intentionally fail a test, not out of malice or lack of effort, but as a statement of my beliefs and a form of rebellion.
Case of the Junior High Math Champion
During my junior high years, I was the reigning math champion, and I thought I would maintain that distinction. However, one day, I was afraid that I might not achieve the top grade in the class. Despite this silly fear, I chose not to compete again, even though it might have seemed advantageous to participate. I felt more comfortable in staying true to myself.
A Sophomore's Rebellious Rejection
As a sophomore in high school, my biology teacher was teaching us about frogs for weeks. I found the subject incredibly boring and unimportant, and my rebellious nature led me to believe that I didn't need to learn this information. One day, we were given a test that required us to label a diagram of a frog, and I didn't know a single part. As a result, I received a failing grade on the test and ultimately a D for the course.
My mother was informed about my performance, and my biology teacher expressed her concern to her. She called my mom to discuss my poor performance in the class, which was too much for her to handle, given that we had been studying frogs for weeks. Knowing that I had to buck up and study, I managed to get a B on my final exam and salvaged a D for the course. Years later, I still question why I chose to rebel and how it got me to where I am today. But at 72, I think I understand myself better. It was simply too boring, and I wanted to express my dissatisfaction with the subject.
Personal Reflections and Life Experiences
Reading about another person's experience where they never intentionally failed a test has made me reflect more deeply. Instead of succumbing to the pressure to succeed, they chose to persevere and overcome various challenges in life. This resonates with me, as I've endured numerous failures both personally and professionally, and I've never regretted any of them.
The belief that 'what has to happen will happen, and whatever happens happens for the good' has been a guiding principle for me. Life often throws us curveballs, and those moments of rebellion and failure can indeed teach us valuable lessons about ourselves and the world around us.
Education is not just about academic achievements but also about personal growth and self-awareness. Challenging conventional norms and standards can sometimes lead to moments of clarity and understanding. While intentionally failing a test might not be the best solution, it can be a powerful statement of integrity and a step towards true personal development.
Throughout this journey, I have learned to embrace my failures and use them as stepping stones for growth. Integrity, sincerity, and rebelling against unnecessary pressure in life have helped shape the person I am today.