Starting Again

   A year ago, I began a journey that was completely outside of my normal, safe behavior. I left my 32 year job as a pharmacist to follow my lifelong dream of writing. The security of regular paychecks and the comfort of an identity that was accepted was terrifying to leave behind. In my professional world, I had a place to belong and a role to fulfill. With this jump into the unknown, my life suddenly started again. I began the process of reinventing myself.

     My role as mother and grandmother has always been a huge part of who I am. There is nothing sweeter than watching my almost three year old grandson running with outstretched arms shouting, “Shay! Shay!” Or my seven year old granddaughter crawling into my lap for some cuddle time. They are so precious, but even they could not define me. I had to look deep within myself to answer that question. 

     My only barrier is myself. I had to get over me in order to find me. I could no longer follow the expectations of others to model my life. In essence, I needed to purge myself of the person I had let others create. I looked to my heart, and for me, my Christ, for guidance. I had to re-exam and reposition myself with His help. 

     Maybe you, like me, need encouragement to scale your own wall. I believe that once you face the boundary, you will find that it is usually self-imposed. Life really is short. At my 50+ years, I am finally trying to follow my dream. Looking back over my life, I sometimes wish that I had not waited so long. In reality, this timing is perfect. 

      As I endeavor to climb over the fence, I invite you along. I encourage you to search yourself, and, if it’s right, let this be your time to grow. Water those dreams and fertilize those aspirations. Let your garden grow.