Don’s post is wistful and sweet. He and I were classmates in the days before Search Engine Optimization and “smart phones” (Really? How can a phone have cognitive ability?).
Maturity is a time of synthesis of things past, present, and future. Don’s has focused on integrating elements of our collective and personal histories through his writing. Mine has explored new areas of service as a pediatrician moving in concentric circles from one specialty into another.
To me, the key concept is philosophical: not so much what we do, but how we view ourselves and our world. The rich essence of being defines us beyond any material contribution.
Not to sound overtly spiritual, but I found that if I take my eyes off of all of the circumstances around me that make me feel "insignificant", and know that God has created us in His image, I can enjoy life more by enjoying Him more. :-)
Could not agree more, Don. Though I am only in my 30's, I am painfully aware of wasted "Default years," spent goofing around and being useless. It's encouraging to meet people further along in life who also have found that it's never too late to find deep purpose and live it out. May have to appropriate your daily affirmation, by the way. Mine is more focused on the kind of daily legacy I want to leave, not necessarily focusing my mind on what I want out of life. Good thoughts for a Saturday morning :) Thanks!
Another great article, Don. I’m a mid-lifer and a lot of what you write resonates with me. I love it when people who are taking new pathways meet other people who are also taking new pathways which is how I met you and found out about this newsletter (my dad has subscribed now too!)
I like to feel like I am still firmly lodged in the Peter Pan syndrome....I don't want to grow up! But then again, I know I did! I'm thinking maybe the trick is to see both the ordinary and extraordinary with fresh, young eyes and perspectives. And to be adaptable. If I can adapt, I can roll with and accept what life lays out for me each insignificant or disruptive step along the way.
I really resonate with "I want to work with words in ways that give lives meaning and purpose." That describes my purpose in a clear, intelligible way.
What a great read, Don! I am at this crossroad now. Having spent the last 7 years carving out a new purpose for my life--caregiver, community service, forging late-life friendships that nourish my spirit, and yes, finding my voice as a poet(!), I now find myself looking for a part-time job! But not just any job.
I want a job that sparks my curiosity and passions, using what I've learned to help others. As I navigate this process (resume-writing is hard work!) I'm rediscovering myself--what makes me tick? What do I stand for, and what will I not abide? The answers are mostly self-confirming but also challenging me to change. Here's to life!
Don’s post is wistful and sweet. He and I were classmates in the days before Search Engine Optimization and “smart phones” (Really? How can a phone have cognitive ability?).
Maturity is a time of synthesis of things past, present, and future. Don’s has focused on integrating elements of our collective and personal histories through his writing. Mine has explored new areas of service as a pediatrician moving in concentric circles from one specialty into another.
To me, the key concept is philosophical: not so much what we do, but how we view ourselves and our world. The rich essence of being defines us beyond any material contribution.
Not to sound overtly spiritual, but I found that if I take my eyes off of all of the circumstances around me that make me feel "insignificant", and know that God has created us in His image, I can enjoy life more by enjoying Him more. :-)
Could not agree more, Don. Though I am only in my 30's, I am painfully aware of wasted "Default years," spent goofing around and being useless. It's encouraging to meet people further along in life who also have found that it's never too late to find deep purpose and live it out. May have to appropriate your daily affirmation, by the way. Mine is more focused on the kind of daily legacy I want to leave, not necessarily focusing my mind on what I want out of life. Good thoughts for a Saturday morning :) Thanks!
Another great article, Don. I’m a mid-lifer and a lot of what you write resonates with me. I love it when people who are taking new pathways meet other people who are also taking new pathways which is how I met you and found out about this newsletter (my dad has subscribed now too!)
I like to feel like I am still firmly lodged in the Peter Pan syndrome....I don't want to grow up! But then again, I know I did! I'm thinking maybe the trick is to see both the ordinary and extraordinary with fresh, young eyes and perspectives. And to be adaptable. If I can adapt, I can roll with and accept what life lays out for me each insignificant or disruptive step along the way.
I really resonate with "I want to work with words in ways that give lives meaning and purpose." That describes my purpose in a clear, intelligible way.
What a great read, Don! I am at this crossroad now. Having spent the last 7 years carving out a new purpose for my life--caregiver, community service, forging late-life friendships that nourish my spirit, and yes, finding my voice as a poet(!), I now find myself looking for a part-time job! But not just any job.
I want a job that sparks my curiosity and passions, using what I've learned to help others. As I navigate this process (resume-writing is hard work!) I'm rediscovering myself--what makes me tick? What do I stand for, and what will I not abide? The answers are mostly self-confirming but also challenging me to change. Here's to life!