The Imperfect 100

Who wouldn’t want to receive a perfect score of 100? Back in grade school, achieving a 100 meant excellence, a flawless performance. Although there were other grading systems, such as “O” for Outstanding, “VS” for Very Satisfactory, “S” for Satisfactory, and “NI” for Needs Improvement, I always preferred numerical grades. Numbers provided a clear distinction, an exact measure of how I compared to the rest of the class.

That was many years ago.

Fast forward to two weeks ago, and I was once again offered a grade of 100. But this time, there was no celebration, no sense of achievement. Instead of feeling proud, I found myself reluctant. I even tried to negotiate for a lower number, but I was told that 100 was the minimum I could have. It wasn’t a reflection of perfection this time—it was a necessity.

Now, I wear eyeglasses with a prescription grade of 100. Not to mark an accomplishment, but to compensate for an imperfection. Life has an ironic way of redefining what once felt like a triumph. Years ago, 100 represented excellence. Today, it represents clarity—a different kind of perfection, one that helps me see the world as it is, rather than how I once thought it should be.

Funny how numbers can hold such different meanings depending on where you are in life. In school, a perfect 100 set me apart; now, it simply helps me find my way. And perhaps, in its own way, that is just as valuable.