I’m reaching a turning point in my life, maybe not a very big one, but one that is inspiring me to re-evaluate what I am doing in the grand scheme of things. I’ve never been much of a planner, though. My idea of thinking ahead for the long term involves realising that the kettle needs switching on to make a cup of tea - how quintessentially British of me! I don’t believe in the ten, five or even one year plan, but meet obstacles and share adventures as and when they head my way. I’ve finished my first quarter century and - as of Sunday when I shall be 26 - shall be ploughing on with my striving to reach a half century. I love life, I don’t believe there is a single soul in the world who loves life more than me, and now, as I reach this landmark in my life, I am looking at how to live the life that I love so much.
(Incidentally, I am so glad that I wrote that last line instead of saying it, because I believe it would prove to be a bit of a tongue twister!)
I inwardly squirm when I hear the phrase “rites of passage” being brandished around. Most people use it to span any event or even substitute the word event for it. But I do believe that I am now standing before one, hovering on the cusp and waiting to see which fork of road I am going to pick. I am actually quite happy at the stage I’m at in my life now, content but not without hopes and ambitions.
I was listening to the Bryan Adams song “Native Son” earlier and I was contemplating the peculiar feeling of immense loss and hope that both sing through to me in this song - he probably felt it had totally different undertones but unique understanding is part of the beauty of art. In turn the song made me think of the film “Stand By Me”. If you haven’t seen this film then stop reading this blog and sit down and watch it. It is the definitive film of transition and is so brilliantly crafted, although it leaves me with a peculiar feeling of reality as though it somehow wakes you up to the world around you and the need to get things done in it.
As much as I would love to stay trapped in this moment for the rest of my life, time is still hurrying on, and as a slave to it, I have to follow. In the past - and even up until sitting here writing this blog at an insanely early time at the beginning of July, if I’m totally honest - I hated the idea of having to conform to the restrictions of time, but now it is a challenge. I don’t have to change myself to grow older, I just have to learn more and grow in wisdom, that’s what it is all about. I shall still be flying kites on the beach, collecting shells, watching children’s films and playing games. When I think of all the people I know - and in my job that covers a decent age range - those that are happiest are the ones who have learnt how to hold on to their inner child. It is not about combing the town on a Friday or Saturday night, it’s about seeking and seeing adventure when it comes your way.
From a very early age I’ve had dreams of doing exciting things - visiting Norway, for one - now that I’m old enough to do them the question is no longer “Can I do them?” it is “Dare I do them?”. At the moment the answer is a resounding: no, but as of Sunday things might be different.
26 - I’ve decided - is the age of taking the bull by the horns, let’s see where it leads!
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