I admire the way you embrace change. Whenever a friend or acquaintance grumbles about their past I tell them you can't change the past so move on. The past can be a horrible burden if you dwell on it. Keep the memory but make new ones.
Ms. Slater, when I was a young man about 200 years ago (that's what it feels like) I mentioned to my mother that I wanted to be a writer. She snapped, "You haven't done anything to write about." She was quite wrong. I kept it all internally and have added to it millions of times over.
I've started my writing over and over again only to be interrupted by one annoying interruption or another.
I'm finally living alone. My fingers are twitching to get at that big Logitech keyboard that's shaped perfectly for my big hands.
Since I first came across your writing I've been influenced by the way you continue to move forward with your life and manage to sidestep obstacles. I shall put your written words to work for me and no one else. I have a unique story to tell and I need to get at it.
The last typing test I took resulted in an impressive score of 110 words per minute. I finally started listing by order of youth to elderly gentleman my experiences that I feel might be helpful for others who may have lived in silence with their thoughts and feelings. Writing is the best way, to me, to get it all off my mind. I scream with my keyboard. I share wonderful moments and laugh or cry at 110 words per minute.
So, thank you so much, Ms. Slater, for your influential being by sharing with your readers
You're very welcome. I think I was an adult at birth. As a school boy girls would come to me for advice. In reading your work I somehow feel you had those adult tendencies as well. I call it freedom.
I'm looking forward to getting your book. You are a beautiful soul who seems to literally float through life as though you were on autopilot.
Our ‘roadmap’ took us from Burbank, California to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was a lot to take on, but the excitement over rode the exhaustion. We are settled here in our new home slowly unpacking, maybe not so slowly, my cherished possessions. I could only downsize so much. I fight with feeling lazy, but realize that the time I take to just be is as important, if not more than the time I take to do. In fact, this morning, I am taking time off. Lazy-ing. Your syllabus concept inspires me. Personally, I enjoy your adventures in fashion land, creating your new home and hearing about the exploring of your new surroundings. I grew up in that neck of the woods and can already see the trees changing color, or at least soon. I bought a bicycle. Your sharing of a little accident Will make me aware when I venture out in my new surroundings. It’s been a little hot for that here so far. I feel like I’m talking to a friend as I write this and wish you the very best Bonnie.
As I read this post on nostalgia and reinvention, I think of my own quest to reinvent in my 60's and to relocate abroad and start a new life. I came across this just yesterday and it seems to track with the idea of reinvention, change, moving on and nostalgia: "I have learned that if you must leave a place that you have lived in and loved and where all your yesteryears are buried deep, leave it any way except a slow way, leave it the fastest way you can. Never turn back and never believe that an hour you remember is a better hour because it is dead. Passed years seem safe ones, vanquished ones, while the future lives in a cloud, formidable from a distance. The cloud clears as you enter it. I have learned this, but like everyone, I learned it
My reinvention: shifting from thinking there was “a calling” in my professorial labors. Shifting from thinking that decades of 50+ hour work weeks would amount to something. And so I shift into the long, drawn out ending of the career I’ve spent my whole adulthood doing. Trying to find my way while reinventing my soul, orienting away from workaholism and mistaken faith in “work” and academic work in particular. Moving into more time to literally just stare at horizon lines, the sky, the trees.
I wouldn't discount the decades spent in your profession. They most surely amounted to something. Whatever your profession was you contributed to that community and you no doubt enriched your life while doing it. Now is just a different season in your life. One where you can slow down and take time to stare at horizon lines, the sky and the trees. Best to you on your new path. ❤️
I don’t regret a moment. Being a social worker and professor was a gift. I would never be the me that I am if I hadn’t inadvertently landed in social work. I do understand that everything I have ever done before comes with me and I thank you for the reminder.
I understand this feeling you’re experiencing. What does it all add up to? I have asked myself. An American in Provence, I’m now surrounded by Europeans who have seemingly been investing in themselves their entire career. But now, three years of post-work-for-someone-else, I’m discovering that along the way I did plant seeds for myself. It just took me time to discover me, discover and nurture them. Now they’re growing and I am on fire again, working in a flow state I always craved. What does it all add up to? Me, today, and with whatever time I have left to instigate the impact I so desire for the world.
Like your reflections - whatever they’re about! This resonated in particular: “Nostalgia is a retreat to the past because the present is scary and unpredictable. However, when you get stuck in nostalgia, you lose the capacity for innovation because you prefer to live in the past. We're facing tough and psychologically challenging times, but we shouldn't get stuck in nostalgia and instead focus on creating a better future.”
Am at a crossroads - this was timely - and a good reminder - thanks for sharing.
Autumn also gets me excited for the fresh unopened notebooks and colorful new pens. I also find it is the time where I "need new school clothes", reassessing and updating the key pieces: Do I still like my coat? Do I have good boots?
Im excited to be on this journey with you and always love your posts so having 1 weekly will be a treat.
Thank you! Having to start thinking outfits when I go out into the world to promote the book. Still not sure what this new reinvention persona is garbed in.
Thank you Lyn, for your insights, clarity, and generous spirit. I always look forward to your writing, and am never disappointed. This year I have fallen twice on my bike; the last accident resulting in some scratches and bruises, and a black eye - my first in nearly 73 years! However, within a few days I was back on it, and feel very grateful for the ability to ride and for all the joy it brings; and envision riding well into my 80s! Wishing you all the best ~ Jane
My reinvention: my children are older now and no longer need me. After 14 years as a SAHM, I am re entering the workforce (or trying to, anyway). People keep asking me what my plan is...at the moment I don’t have one. It’s strange to feel like I have all this time and that my children are growing away from me. I know that I miss academia--it’s where I thrive. I will be substitute teaching this fall so it’s a step closer. I feel pursuing a master’s or a doctorate will be in my future...but it’s hard to know what to do. I would love to hear your thoughts on whether or not pursuing a job as an English professor is worth the expense at midlife.
I love your writing and reflections. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with the world!
I’m going to be honest and say that academic jobs in the humanities are hard to get no matter what age you are. I confronted ageism in the academic job market as i finished my doctorate at the age of 54. Plenty of work as an adjunct or clinical professor, not so much tenure track. However I don’t regret the doctorate because it exposed me to new ways of thinking and I got to cross disciplines during my experience as a student. If you love learning for the joy and sake of it then spend the money. Just not sure there is a guarantee of a full-time job at the end.
Have you considered find and joining a writers' group in your area? Check in at your library which is a town square for many of us. The staff will know how to contact other local writers both professionals and aspirationals. You can go back to school for real if there an adult writing class or seminar in your area? Google "Hudson Valley writers group" or ask the library staff. You may find this approach satisfying and affirming and always educational. Writing in a vacuum can be writing into the abyss. Good luck!
Dear Lyn, I love your writing and the way you braid this together--and the way you have bravely reinvented yourself. I am reinventing my life in this new house atop a hill with new neighbors. I am desperately trying to reinvent my career and yet the interruptions from childrens needs seem never ending each time i feel like i can begin again--a new child-situation seems to swallow me whole. I'm struggling to reinvent myself as a freelance writer at 55 writing personal essays--and yet feel afraid that i cannot write my truth because there are various people to protect....yet i manage to eke out about an hour or 25 min a day to write and am trying not to give up despite the editorial rejections. Im inspired by your example and hope that one day i will be able to feel so fulfilled --thank you for leading the way and offering hope xo
Lyn, I feel inspired every time I read one of your posts. I am in a new chapter in my life. I choose clothes that make me look and feel amazing. I feel amazing with my super short fade pixie haircut. I don't go on social media. I have re-discovered the joys of going for long walks, travelling, reading, and volunteering. I look forward to reading your new book when it comes out early next year.
A September baby, I always loved back-to-school. Your prompt about creating a syllabi for yourself as a writer is very helpful. I create learning experiences for others, and my syllabi and annotated course map serve as compasses. Like you, I start at the point of transformation I want them to achieve and work backwards. Why didn’t I think about applying that to myself for my writing here on Substack?! Thank you for the much-needed, inspirational kick in the pants. 😊
I admire the way you embrace change. Whenever a friend or acquaintance grumbles about their past I tell them you can't change the past so move on. The past can be a horrible burden if you dwell on it. Keep the memory but make new ones.
Ms. Slater, when I was a young man about 200 years ago (that's what it feels like) I mentioned to my mother that I wanted to be a writer. She snapped, "You haven't done anything to write about." She was quite wrong. I kept it all internally and have added to it millions of times over.
I've started my writing over and over again only to be interrupted by one annoying interruption or another.
I'm finally living alone. My fingers are twitching to get at that big Logitech keyboard that's shaped perfectly for my big hands.
Since I first came across your writing I've been influenced by the way you continue to move forward with your life and manage to sidestep obstacles. I shall put your written words to work for me and no one else. I have a unique story to tell and I need to get at it.
The last typing test I took resulted in an impressive score of 110 words per minute. I finally started listing by order of youth to elderly gentleman my experiences that I feel might be helpful for others who may have lived in silence with their thoughts and feelings. Writing is the best way, to me, to get it all off my mind. I scream with my keyboard. I share wonderful moments and laugh or cry at 110 words per minute.
So, thank you so much, Ms. Slater, for your influential being by sharing with your readers
Sincerely,
Richard La France
Oh my Richard, thank you! I love this line, “I scream with my keyboard” and yes I see you interrupting the silences of those who felt alone.
You're very welcome. I think I was an adult at birth. As a school boy girls would come to me for advice. In reading your work I somehow feel you had those adult tendencies as well. I call it freedom.
I'm looking forward to getting your book. You are a beautiful soul who seems to literally float through life as though you were on autopilot.
Richard La France
Our ‘roadmap’ took us from Burbank, California to Santa Fe, New Mexico. It was a lot to take on, but the excitement over rode the exhaustion. We are settled here in our new home slowly unpacking, maybe not so slowly, my cherished possessions. I could only downsize so much. I fight with feeling lazy, but realize that the time I take to just be is as important, if not more than the time I take to do. In fact, this morning, I am taking time off. Lazy-ing. Your syllabus concept inspires me. Personally, I enjoy your adventures in fashion land, creating your new home and hearing about the exploring of your new surroundings. I grew up in that neck of the woods and can already see the trees changing color, or at least soon. I bought a bicycle. Your sharing of a little accident Will make me aware when I venture out in my new surroundings. It’s been a little hot for that here so far. I feel like I’m talking to a friend as I write this and wish you the very best Bonnie.
Congratulations! such a mystical and creative place you are now living in. Can’t wait to see what you conjure up.
I adore Santa Fe! So happy for you in your new surroundings.
As I read this post on nostalgia and reinvention, I think of my own quest to reinvent in my 60's and to relocate abroad and start a new life. I came across this just yesterday and it seems to track with the idea of reinvention, change, moving on and nostalgia: "I have learned that if you must leave a place that you have lived in and loved and where all your yesteryears are buried deep, leave it any way except a slow way, leave it the fastest way you can. Never turn back and never believe that an hour you remember is a better hour because it is dead. Passed years seem safe ones, vanquished ones, while the future lives in a cloud, formidable from a distance. The cloud clears as you enter it. I have learned this, but like everyone, I learned it
late." ~Beryl Markham
Wisdom. Thank you for sharing.
My reinvention: shifting from thinking there was “a calling” in my professorial labors. Shifting from thinking that decades of 50+ hour work weeks would amount to something. And so I shift into the long, drawn out ending of the career I’ve spent my whole adulthood doing. Trying to find my way while reinventing my soul, orienting away from workaholism and mistaken faith in “work” and academic work in particular. Moving into more time to literally just stare at horizon lines, the sky, the trees.
and believe me they are beautiful! In the emptiness of a space filled with workaholism (I know that well) all sorts of unanticipated wonders appear.
I wouldn't discount the decades spent in your profession. They most surely amounted to something. Whatever your profession was you contributed to that community and you no doubt enriched your life while doing it. Now is just a different season in your life. One where you can slow down and take time to stare at horizon lines, the sky and the trees. Best to you on your new path. ❤️
I don’t regret a moment. Being a social worker and professor was a gift. I would never be the me that I am if I hadn’t inadvertently landed in social work. I do understand that everything I have ever done before comes with me and I thank you for the reminder.
I understand this feeling you’re experiencing. What does it all add up to? I have asked myself. An American in Provence, I’m now surrounded by Europeans who have seemingly been investing in themselves their entire career. But now, three years of post-work-for-someone-else, I’m discovering that along the way I did plant seeds for myself. It just took me time to discover me, discover and nurture them. Now they’re growing and I am on fire again, working in a flow state I always craved. What does it all add up to? Me, today, and with whatever time I have left to instigate the impact I so desire for the world.
The beautiful incredible benefit of being old. You articulate it so well.
Like your reflections - whatever they’re about! This resonated in particular: “Nostalgia is a retreat to the past because the present is scary and unpredictable. However, when you get stuck in nostalgia, you lose the capacity for innovation because you prefer to live in the past. We're facing tough and psychologically challenging times, but we shouldn't get stuck in nostalgia and instead focus on creating a better future.”
Am at a crossroads - this was timely - and a good reminder - thanks for sharing.
I think of that every day.
Autumn also gets me excited for the fresh unopened notebooks and colorful new pens. I also find it is the time where I "need new school clothes", reassessing and updating the key pieces: Do I still like my coat? Do I have good boots?
Im excited to be on this journey with you and always love your posts so having 1 weekly will be a treat.
Thank you! Having to start thinking outfits when I go out into the world to promote the book. Still not sure what this new reinvention persona is garbed in.
Thank you Lyn, for your insights, clarity, and generous spirit. I always look forward to your writing, and am never disappointed. This year I have fallen twice on my bike; the last accident resulting in some scratches and bruises, and a black eye - my first in nearly 73 years! However, within a few days I was back on it, and feel very grateful for the ability to ride and for all the joy it brings; and envision riding well into my 80s! Wishing you all the best ~ Jane
As my bruised bone heals and the hematoma on my jawbone shrinks I thank you for the inspiration as I want to ride my bike into my sunset!
My reinvention: my children are older now and no longer need me. After 14 years as a SAHM, I am re entering the workforce (or trying to, anyway). People keep asking me what my plan is...at the moment I don’t have one. It’s strange to feel like I have all this time and that my children are growing away from me. I know that I miss academia--it’s where I thrive. I will be substitute teaching this fall so it’s a step closer. I feel pursuing a master’s or a doctorate will be in my future...but it’s hard to know what to do. I would love to hear your thoughts on whether or not pursuing a job as an English professor is worth the expense at midlife.
I love your writing and reflections. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with the world!
I’m going to be honest and say that academic jobs in the humanities are hard to get no matter what age you are. I confronted ageism in the academic job market as i finished my doctorate at the age of 54. Plenty of work as an adjunct or clinical professor, not so much tenure track. However I don’t regret the doctorate because it exposed me to new ways of thinking and I got to cross disciplines during my experience as a student. If you love learning for the joy and sake of it then spend the money. Just not sure there is a guarantee of a full-time job at the end.
Have you considered find and joining a writers' group in your area? Check in at your library which is a town square for many of us. The staff will know how to contact other local writers both professionals and aspirationals. You can go back to school for real if there an adult writing class or seminar in your area? Google "Hudson Valley writers group" or ask the library staff. You may find this approach satisfying and affirming and always educational. Writing in a vacuum can be writing into the abyss. Good luck!
Thanks for these great suggestions.
Or, if you prefer online...London Writer’s Salon has wonderful talks, groups, challenges and more where writers across the globe gather.
Already a member and I do love that i connect with writers all over the world.
As always an inspiring text.
Thank you!
Dear Lyn, I love your writing and the way you braid this together--and the way you have bravely reinvented yourself. I am reinventing my life in this new house atop a hill with new neighbors. I am desperately trying to reinvent my career and yet the interruptions from childrens needs seem never ending each time i feel like i can begin again--a new child-situation seems to swallow me whole. I'm struggling to reinvent myself as a freelance writer at 55 writing personal essays--and yet feel afraid that i cannot write my truth because there are various people to protect....yet i manage to eke out about an hour or 25 min a day to write and am trying not to give up despite the editorial rejections. Im inspired by your example and hope that one day i will be able to feel so fulfilled --thank you for leading the way and offering hope xo
ha! thankyou lyn. i continue to pinch myself (and it shows on my 75yo skin:)
Lyn, I feel inspired every time I read one of your posts. I am in a new chapter in my life. I choose clothes that make me look and feel amazing. I feel amazing with my super short fade pixie haircut. I don't go on social media. I have re-discovered the joys of going for long walks, travelling, reading, and volunteering. I look forward to reading your new book when it comes out early next year.
Sounds like the life I am aspiring to cultivate. Especially the social media part. Perhaps after my book is published…
A September baby, I always loved back-to-school. Your prompt about creating a syllabi for yourself as a writer is very helpful. I create learning experiences for others, and my syllabi and annotated course map serve as compasses. Like you, I start at the point of transformation I want them to achieve and work backwards. Why didn’t I think about applying that to myself for my writing here on Substack?! Thank you for the much-needed, inspirational kick in the pants. 😊
The best part of having a community is the way we can inspire each other!