On being 55

I was watching a show on PBS called life (part2). It dealt with the aging process and what do we do with ourselves after we retire. I retired at 48 and still haven’t worked out the finer details at 55. The show discussed the concept of reinventing ourselves and finding value in our old age. I think I have the reinvention part down; I’m just not sure where to take it. Many folks still struggle with my use of my birth name as opposed to the tacky nickname given to me by my parents. My family struggles with it mostly. Some people of very little importance, or depth, also struggle with it from my former life as an employee.

On that note I just wanted to say I have never felt more alive and loved. My golf game has actually become a passion, I currently suspect my driver of being involved with my 9-iron, thus causing a sad breakdown in my game. I will explore this further.
I have found joy in remodeling stuff. I am not overly picky about what I remodel. You might actually find it odd that my workbench is tile covered.

What was I going to do with all those odd pieces left over from construction?

I have rediscovered a love and amazement with God. I struggle with the appropriate label.

Based on my interaction with most Christians I find a huge admiration for my Jewish friends. I think they have the original manuscript.

I went from a Republican to a so so something else. I just worry when Oprah can define a candidate…

I fear that our young are a generation molded by us, who were at best miserable examples. We lacked teaching values or pride. Our bad on a universal scale.

I love the voice of a friend over the phone and a hug from people I love. I am happily moved by a hug from a stranger.

I think Field of Dreams one of the best movies ever made.

I also know that 6 years ago I stood in my kitchen and watched the second tower of the World Trade Center be hit by and airplane.

I know I was not the only one changed by that day.