Life often takes us down pathways we never imagined. Our directions change sometimes by choice but often by circumstance. For me too many have been changes beyond my control, sometimes with great tragedy or heartbreak. I once again find myself at a new crossroad, not quite by choice but one I am happily embracing. I am trying to listen to my soul as I decide which path to take.
I am starting this blog to document where this new path will lead. I see a path that I am drawn to. It is unexpected but I feel so strongly that this is where I will go. I am cautiously exploring it. I am tempted but it will be a challenging journey but one I know will bring a joy to my soul and sense of accomplishment to my life. It is something I search for as I find the years slipping away. I will be sixty-five the end of this year. I can no longer pretend that I am young even though I often feel it. I need to live. I need to experience. I need to calm my soul.
I am on this path partially due to failed relationships. I have finally come to realize that I enjoy living alone, being alone, doing things alone. It was something I never was before and was scared to be. But now that I am I don't think I ever want to be in another serious relationship. I like living life for me.. on my terms... on my own time. It is very liberating. It is much like a message sign I saw posted at El Arroyo (well known for their humor) "I've been single for awhile now, and honestly think I am the one!"
The path I am drawn to takes me back to my love of hiking, especially in the forests and mountains. I get such happiness, a peacefulness and a restfulness to my soul when I am out in nature. I have let too many years go by that I didn't get out. Oh maybe a an odd trip here and there, but not enough to maintain the contentment that those few outings brought. So I am making a point of going for walks in the park or hiking on nearby trails. I am planning on many future trips to the areas I love most and to go discover new ones. I also want to reconnect with that feeling I had when I spent time at Kidane Mehret orphanage in Addis when I helped with the kids there. The feeling one gets from giving back with ones time to help those most in need. While I do not plan on returning to Ethiopia at this time I am looking at other options for when I retire in less than three years. It is on that path I am exploring. As I may venture on down that path I may be led to new ones. That is something I have learned often happens over the years, sometimes when you least expect it . I do hope though that I have learned that even if the path does change, I will remain true to the direction that my soul feels at peace.
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