Kim and I are going on a road trip. I have said this sentence at least four or five times in my adult life. It may be because Kim and I have been friends for nearly all of our adult (and, indeed, pre-adult life). Tomorrow at a time that we have both referred to in the past as "Dawn's Crack," I will board my one-way flight to Florida. We'll spend a day at the beach and then load up the vehicle for a trip back to Indiana. Although this will be our latest trip, it is also part of a continuing journey — a journey's halfway point and the beginning of part two.
We met in seventh grade, roomed together in and after college. We shared apartments. Kim was my one friend that stood up with me when I got married and stood by me when that marriage ended. I officiated at Kim's wedding and now will accompany her as that chapter comes to a close. As it usually does, these transitions are quite sobering and painful — even when it's the right thing. I was feeling nervous and sad when I got up this morning, but during spinning class (at Dawn's Crack), I realized, as I was furiously spinning no where, that this road trip may mark the end of one era, but we are certainly just beginning.
Neither one of us ever thought that at the age of 50 we'd essentially be starting over. At 50, my parents were set in their ways, having three kids to raise, a mortgage nearly paid off and, by all appearances enough money to retire. My life is much different than what was expected of women who came before. I often feel discouraged and lament, "By now, you would think I would have things figured out." What you end up realizing is that you may NEVER have things figured out. And, that's okay.
Pursuing your passions and your talents is not always the easy way—in my case, it's never been the financially comfortable way, but it's a way I'll never regret.
So, I say to Kim, "I know it's overwhelming, scary, risky and difficult, so, pack up the car and let's hit the road!" And, together with our friends, we'll get through it. Besides, we're only halfway there...
