As I was driving to work today, I stopped at the light next to a guy driving a 1970ish Cadillac Fleetwood convertible—an icon of a time gone by. It was particularly styled out: leopard-print dashboard cover, big fluffy sheepskin seat covers. While not in great condition, this boat was sweet looking (adding to the wanderlust, I was driving my wife’s Prius this morning). Now, it’s August—still clearly summer in Colorado—but we get to enjoy very comfortable morning temperatures. I used to own a convertible (actually have owned 2), but don’t currently have one. But as my 40s become my mid-40s, and the college tuition iceberg looms, I entertain myself by thinking about what classic convertible I’ll be driving to ABMP in the summer of 2016. It’s okay to daydream, right?
In my world, you bet it is. We are all increasingly conscious about our decisions and how they affect our environment, and I have entered that phase where I question what it is I need, want, or don’t care about. I need very little; I have been blessed. I want even less. Availability of time, health, peace, and my loved ones fill me up. The fun thing about aging (and there aren’t A LOT of fun things) is that you shed the insecurities or preconceptions of youth, and get increasingly comfortable in your own (sagging) skin.
Of course we live in America, and we continue to consume (we have to, for our economy’s sake). So like everything else, moderation is the key.
Living in a capitalist society means we are focused on growing our business, our livelihood, and driving interest in our goods and services. So I don’t think apologies are required for wanting to be successful in your given path, and then celebrating your success with something that gives you satisfaction and meaning. For instance, a couple of my ABMP colleagues own horses, and doing so feeds their souls. Horses are also healthy investments (a lot of throughput, if you know what I mean).
As you become an adult, you start to further define who you are, and what drives you. For me, my wife, my sons, ABMP, playing hockey, running, and occasionally playing in a band float my boat. And from time to time, driving a convertible. But not right now.
What do you dream of?