Longing, Lounging, Learning
I’m on a quest. Well, more precisely multiple quests. If you asked those who know me well, they would probably describe my best qualities as being fun to be around, a supportive, faithful and consistent friend, generous with a smile and in perpetual movement. On the other hand, I may also be a bit uptight (ok, I own that). Looking at the big picture? My mental and physical health is in tact, I have a loving family that surrounds me, and I see the world through rose-colored lenses.
Inside, the truth I hold deep within me….a bit of a turmoil. About five years ago, my family picked themselves up and moved across the ocean. New language, new culture, new lifestyle. I made 180 turn in my professional career, or my “encore career” (the terminology I like to use). And although my current position is a bit of a teeter-totter, I’ve succeeded in the reinvention and am happy with the result.
So, let’s talk about the quests….LONGING….through the magic of WhatsApp, cheap phone plans and video chatting I can connect with those closest and dearest to me, but it’s just NOT the same. I am longing for the physical connection that is so far away. I am feeling a physical and emotional distance (5 year itch?) What do I yearn for? A girls’ night with my besties out or the intimate dinner and glass of wine for two.
Lounging. What’s that? The chance to just sit around and do nothing?! While I can’t imagine enjoying that for any length of time, the idea of mentally unwinding, sitting back and enjoying the scenery, taking a vacation, maybe that’s not (right now) within my fiscal vocabulary and it’s an unrealistic ambition.
Learning. A Forever learner, I’m not only learning (as a middle-aged person) how to keep my skill set relevant, my brain active and my body healthy, I’m also learning about how to “let it go…” learning about appreciating the big picture and accepting the things I can not change.
What type of quest are you on?
