Defying Gravity Gave Me a New Perspective!

I recently went from watching my two grandsons (now 3 years old and a 1 year old) - to visiting my 84 year old dad.

Both experiences gave me pause to consider the fact that I may possibly have 20-30+ years ahead of me in this season of my life.  

I observed that it requires patience and stamina to care for toddlers. 

It requires patience and stamina as one grows older.  Getting old robs one's body of strength and  sharpness.  

This first hand account gave me a stronger resolve to keep in shape.

I also realized that I am at a point in my life where I am discerning my next project, or job, or volunteer opportunity.  I have been seriously wrestling with a few ideas and possible business opportunities -- some of which are coming into better focus for me. But, truthfully, it's kind of scary to completely change course from what you are comfortable with or work you have done most of your adult life and start over.  

I know myself very well.

I know how hard I work.

I know my personal work ethic can be all consuming.  

I know how much I love personal growth and development.

I know a business takes funding.

I know a business takes time and energy.

I also know how much I love being available for my family. 

While going through all of these gyrations back and forth in my little head a friend of mine told me I needed to read Jon Acuff's book:  START. Punch Fear in the Face, Escape Average, Do What Matters.  

Well I first got the Kindle version of this book, but found the Kindle version difficult to highlight. ;)  

So I bought the hardback book--and I am so glad I did.  START. has helped crystalize what's going on in my head.  Mr. Acuff mentions in his book that when we reach the point of making decisions some of us "cue the fog machine" to muddy the decision making "and pretend there's a fog of complexity in the way."  I believe this is where I am.  So, I began struggling with finding the off switch to the fog machine.  

Then a few days ago I was listening to the musical WICKED when I was working out -- okay, I know, strange music to motive you to exercise.  Stick with me, I promise to connect the dots!  Honestly when the song, Defying Gravity was playing, it was as if I was hearing the song for the first time.  I bet I have sung along with that song a million times, but I am not sure I have ever really listened to lyrics of the song.  This time I heard it loud and clear..."It's time to trust my instincts, close my eyes and leap."  

I know people my age are just beginning to think of or starting to look forward to retiring or slowing down--but if I live another 1, 5, 10, 20+ years, is that what I want?  

I also know many people my age are going back to school or starting new careers...they turned their fog machine off and made a decision to go after a dream.

I really envy my son, Adam.  Talk about going after a dream!  Adam has known since he was a sophomore in high school that he wanted to play the trumpet professionally.  

Adam Gautille performing

Adam is a member of Back Bay Brass in Boston

Back Bay Brass, one of Boston's premier chamber music ensembles, 

delivers exciting and virtuosic performances throughout the Greater Boston area.

(Okay, I know, a shameless plug)

He has been playing since he was in 3rd grade and has been following his passion ever since--from college undergrad to grad school, competitions, auditions.  But he did it with his eyes wide open. We explained the competitiveness of the industry, the challenges of making it in the music business.  We also equipped him with great mentors.  Adam sought out great professors to study under, musicians to take lessons from, as well as became astute at networking, and playing as much as possible--lots and lots of "gigging".  

Not to mention the fact that he is an incredible musician and person!  No fog machine for Adam. For him it's the strong desire and belief in himself and his God-given talent that keeps him moving forward. It is his strong work ethic and persistence that will help him grab the brass ring. And HE WILL grab the brass ring!  I can really learn something from Adam's big dream and his tenacity & persistence!  Don't give up on your dream!

As for me and my next venture?  

Well, I am not as afraid any more.  I am blessed to have a deep and profound faith in Christ as a Catholic, so I do fully rely on God.  Also, if I am going to gamble on something...why not gamble on myself, close my eyes and leap?!

I Lasso the courage to defy gravity!