Wanted: Story-tellers

I collect stories. My intention is to inspire people who are interested in aging with an open heart to adventure through a collection of these stories. I need your help.

I’ve heard and read some fascinating stories from around the globe of people who embrace life as it comes and make the most out of what shows up. My favorite stories are personal accounts told by adventuresome souls who got great value in opening their hearts and following where life led them.

In my career and my incessant ‘self-improvement’ I was coached to set goals, then work backwards to take the necessary action to improve my odds. For example: “I am the possibility of freedom and ease in my family life.” Then where do I want to be in 9 months, 6 months and 3 months and what actions do I need to outline and accomplish to make that happen – map it opt, implement it, head down, full speed ahead.

I’m a doer with a strong work ethic so that generally worked. The problem is – I am not designed to live that way. I used much self-aggression and critical judgement towards my efforts and my persona in attempts to fit into that model. Hence, life has been a consideralbe struggle, even though I pretty much lived a privileged life.

I have always been attracted to people who authentically lived as they were designed. They were fun to be around and even when life presented unfair and harsh challenges, they enjoyed their family and friends and I found myself spending more and more time in their circles. Eventually I left the corporate world, retired, and began to listen more to the internal guidance that wanted to drive my life and turned down the volume on all outside well-meaning advise. Adventures abound!

At this point in my life, I am committed to collecting stories that will inspire others to live their design. I’ve discovered wisdom comes in all types of people regardless of their age and experience; however, I have a high regard for people who have broken free of restrictions that hold them back and show up for whatever is next with an uncanny willingness. Usually, the most tantalizing stories come from the innocence of the tender years and the sage of the golden years.

I am most interested in hearing or reading how folks are looking back and making peace with their history and how they are stepping into making the most of the remaining years so they can exit this life fulfilled, complete and content with what they were given.

Please post on my blog site your stories or help me connect to your friends or family or an acquaintance who has an inspirational story. Here is the link to connect so you can comment, read, or react to the stories we are gathering.

Much appreciation and lively anticipation!