I got some news from home that a friend of mine from high school had died. Cancer… He was a couple years older than me and was one of my buddies from my track team’s 1600 meter relay team. Joe was one of the most unusual guys you would ever see on the track. He had thick glasses, was stocky, and frizzy hair like Einstein. First time I saw him I was wondering what event he would do…because he just didn’t look like an athlete. The coaches had him do a 400 (once around) for time and I couldn’t believe my eyes – he just flew. He had an awkward tilt of the head and his legs churned like a cartoon figure…but he was something else. He had a quiet disposition…because I think he felt awkward, but I got to know him well on our bus trips to different towns. It didn’t take long and he had the respect of the other guys on the team. And when the four of us stepped onto the track we all knew that Joe would deliver – every time. He was an underdog…and I love the underdog! Joe would hand the baton to me on our relay and it seemed he was going the same speed as when he started. He was a bull. And it’s hard to imagine anything taking him out of this life. Cancer is brutal…!
I mention Joe because it just reminds me of how short life is…and how unpredictable it can be. For the past 13 years I’ve dedicated my blood, sweat, and yes…tears to something that means nothing to me…besides a pay check and a pension. All extremely important things in our world. Yes! But I don’t enjoy this. And my life can be over in a minute from now and what will these 13 years be? Just a pay check and a pension. A pension never to be enjoyed…like Joe will never enjoy. Life is about following your passion, your joys, your abilities, and your love. I am truly not doing this and I’m not comfortable with this. As in Joe’s case, life is too short. I can’t waste too many more of my best years on a career that gives nothing back…but a pay check and a pension.
So, with more intensity, I am researching, planning, and being meticulous about starting a business I know will succeed and will allow me to do what I’m passionate about. Millions of people are able to find joy in what they do…and so shall I. I will be meticulous, methodical, practical, and creative in finding paths to bring more meaning into my life, just as I am meant to have. I will not give up…because that is not me!
What is it?
The arts…
