The chance you passed on keeps sending you postcards. They’re called “what if.”

Things you did not try stay perfect in memory, because nothing ever tested them. An attempt that failed becomes a finished story you can put down, while a declined chance stays open and keeps returning at odd hours with an improved version of itself. Not trying is the option that never stops charging you.

If an old one is still visiting, check whether any version of it remains available, since some doors are only assumed to be closed. Where it truly is gone, let it be a rule for the next one rather than a regret. Deciding to try is about which discomfort you would rather carry.