As I write this final blog on what has been twelve months of discovery and enlightenment with a bit of frustration thrown in, I am at a loss on what should be said about this journey. The year began with a burst of energy, sustained momentum in the middle, and is now slowly closing in on the finish line (similar to my running style). I would like to write a profound statement that encompasses this pilgrimage but it escapes me at the moment so will choose to ramble on and on and on. Please bear with me. It will be my sixtieth entry and I simply have run out of words...
I thought this mission was all about me until I realized it had far reaching tentacles and what I learned was not so much about myself but about others. The revelation has left me humbled, amazed, and proud of the generosity of family and friends, the dedication of the many volunteers working at various nonprofit facilities, and the courage of our brave troops serving selflessly overseas. This was confirmation that there are magnificent compassionate people living among us. A good lesson to remember as we enter another political hunting season.
One of my fears beginning this next decade was that old meant the brain cells would start to deteriorate and retaining information or learning new skills would become problematic. What a relief to determine that has not been the case. My increased vocabulary, newly acquired foreign phrases, and other mentally challenging activities debunked that foreboding--at least from my perspective--my children may have a different view but I 'm not asking them.
Physically, I am thrilled to report a much stronger, lighter, and more fit me than when I was a mere fifty year old. And to digress and brag just a bit, my stash of first place race medals are piling up now that I've moved into my new age group. Ahhh, the results of outlasting the competition.
What did I learn from this experiment? What didn't I learn is a better question and with reflection and deep soul searching, I do believe it settles into a rather straightforward and actually quite uncomplicated answer. Drum roll, please...Set goals, keep a record of each accomplishment, and marry (or buddy up with) someone who will embrace this folly and encourage you to the end. It is as simple as that.
What will I do now that 2012 is just around the corner and I can retire my list? Sitting back and relaxing for the last third of my time on this earth doesn't represent my life after this year so I will revise a few of the goals (60 things of 60 things was a bit ambitious) and tackle next year with the knowledge that absolutely anything is possible (even the cookie and mitten making did not stop me).
Thanks to those of you who read my blog, gave me feedback, and encouraged me throughout this endeavor. It made for an extraordinary year. My plans for the future--and I invite all to join me--are to set goals, reach beyond my comfort zone, and most importantly, celebrate the joy of living.
Oh, and with my words running near empty, I will end this blog proclaiming the number one lesson learned this year was that turning the dreaded 6-0 has not been so bad after all.
Use the words below to begin writing your own________ (fill in the blank) list.
1. Read2. Climb
3. Swim
4. Learn
5. Bike
6. Volunteer
7. Write
8. Love
9. Practice
10. Invite
11. Fund raise
12. Fly
13. Run
14. Accomplish
15. Purchase
16. Dance
17. Ride
18. Sample
19. Serve
20. Plant
21. Acquire
22. Bet
23. Assemble
24. Sculpt
25. Cantor
26. Pen
27. Skype
28. Make
29. Compose
30. Remember
31. Select
32 Share
33. Recycle
34. Identify
35. Film
35. Brush
36. Try
37. Study
38. Visit
39. Produce
40. Practice
41. Draft
42. Do
43. Recruit
44. Bestow
45. Correspond
46. Knit
47. Quilt
48. Photograph
49. Send
50. Enjoy
51. Experiment
52. Lift
53. Attend
54. Eat
55. Travel
56. Contribute
57. Hike
58. Communicate
59. Research
60. Document
