I was never afraid of failure after that because, I think, coming that close to death you get kissed. With the years, the actual experience of course fades, but the flavor of it doesn't. I just had a real sense of what choice do I have but to live fully?

In this quote, Debra Winger reflects on how a life-threatening experience profoundly changed her perspective on failure and life. She explains that coming close to death gave her a unique sense of clarity, removing her fear of failure. The metaphor of being "kissed" by death suggests that she felt an intense brush with the fragility of life, which ultimately led to a deeper appreciation for living fully and without hesitation. This experience taught her that life’s uncertainties and challenges are not something to fear but rather an inevitable part of the human condition.

Winger further emphasizes that while the specific memory of the close call with death may fade over time, the "flavor" of that experience remains with her. This reflects how profound and life-changing events, even as memories, continue to shape our outlook on life. The fearlessness that comes from confronting the possibility of death allows a person to approach life with a new sense of freedom, knowing that it is better to embrace challenges than to live in fear of them.

The quote also touches on the theme of choice—Winger’s realization that after coming so close to losing her life, there is only one logical course of action: to live fully. This could be interpreted as an awakening to the idea that life is precious, and we must make the most of the time we have. Failure and setbacks are part of that journey, but they are no longer something to fear when you understand the limited nature of life.

Ultimately, Debra Winger conveys that a life-altering experience can strip away the fear of failure and lead to a more authentic, courageous approach to living. Her words encourage embracing life’s challenges and uncertainties, for they are integral to the experience of living fully and with purpose.