In the book, Half Time, author Bob Buford explains a certain shift that occurs in one's life around the age of 35 to 45. Some might call this shift a mid-life crisis, but Buford explains it as a shift from simply doing to serving. We become aware of our purpose and strive to live the second half with significance.
I was obviously very intrigued by this book as soon as I heard about it because I have been feeling those strong callings of significance during the past year of my life. It's Half Time for me and I'm not concerned with making a dash for the restroom or watching some cheesy entertainment. I'm at the point where I'm realizing the significance of what I do and who I serve in the second half, far outweighs having a perfect career or living a lifestyle that I grew up learning I should live.
What matters to me at the end of the day now is not how much money I make or how big the house is in which I live. To me, if I have touched someone's life in a way they had never been recognized or if I believed in someone who might not have believed in themselves, if I inspired someone to be better or motivated someone to be great, then I know the second half is where I want to be.
I don't want a tax write-off, I want to support a charity because I believe in it. I don't want to sit at a desk all day to collect a pay check and feel guilty or grumpy. I want to work my tail off during the day and come home feeling fulfilled. I want to receive because I want to give and not give so that I can receive. I want my epitaph to read, I cared rather than I wish I would have cared.
At age 36, I'm entering the half way point in my life, but I'm learning that the second half for me is filled with purpose rather intent. I'm ready to tie up my laces and get in the game and enter the second half with conviction, assuredness and a zest for making a difference.
What will YOU do at Half Time?
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5 comments:
Half Time~ Wow, never thought of it that way, I should read that book! I will be 40 in February, Years go by so fast and I'm excited to see what the next 40 will be like ~ Thanks for a lovely post Rhonda! It made my morning!
Love your outlook on this! Never too late for it to be the right time! :) thanks for sharing!
Sarah (The Marathon Mommy)
www.themarathonmommy.blogspot.com
I just turned 40 and have such a need for a change. I'll have to check out that book! Great motto you've got there!
Love the "half time" concept, and I'll have to check out the book! I'm approaching "half time" (I'm 30), and I just hope I go to bed every night content with the decisions I've made that day.
Wow..I've been having those feelings as well. Hence why I decided to come out of my shell and talk about my running and what inspires me.
I fully agree after a certain age we ask ourselves what legacy or water mark am I trying to leave for my kids, family and community. I'm still searching..and I'm loving what I'm finding.
Now how do I balance it all..oy :o
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