Is it ever too late to dream?

One of fear’s favorite things to tell you is that it’s too late to dream.

You’ve missed your opportunity.

The window is closed.

The door is shut.

It’s too late.

But people like my friend Elaine don’t believe that. In fact, she’s living proof that it doesn’t matter when you were born; it matters when you decided to live. Here’s what she told me recently:

Jon, I was at the Franklin, TN  Start Night. (The next one is in Austin.) What a treat! I am 70 years old and am determined not to fall into what I have termed “recliner rot.”  This is a condition that seems to be affecting many people my age.  It is a condition characterized by  a mindset that is content with status quo. It seems to be all about comfort and ease and just coasting. I am so determined not to become a victim of that disease. I want the years I have left to be about more than myself. I am not into decorating the house, travel, buying a second home, garden clubs, plastic surgery, etc. There is nothing wrong with any of that. But, for me, it doesn’t work. I have a husband, children, and grandchildren, and they are a priority. I want to remain fit physically, so I can serve in whatever way I need to.  I love meeting new people, hearing their stories, and seeing if there is any way I can help them  to move past “going with the flow” and “going along to get along”.  It seems like people my age are not interested in taking a pilgrimage to “amazing.” As C.S. Lewis said, “We are satisfied with way too little when more is available.” Thank you for leading us to more. GO FORTH!

Elaine Ross

The next time fear tells you it’s too late, remember what Elaine would say about that, and keep dreaming.