As I sit here contemplating words to describe my thoughts my mind swirls with ideas and plans. The abundance of feats I wish to accomplish and the list of skills in which I wish to excel overflow. Just when I think I have found a good focus, I remember another passion I need to devote my time.

It is March 2021, designated Women’s History Month. I reflect on women past and present that have contributed knowledge and sacrificed time and talent to advance humankind. I wonder where my contributions should be focused.

As I have started my seventh decade (maybe I should say I have passed 60 – somehow this sounds younger!) I shouldn’t spend my time wondering why I didn’t accomplish more, but instead remembering the things I have done well and planning future accomplishments.

I am fortunate to be employed full time and work for a supportive company. I do my job exceedingly well. I have a command of numbers and detail and a grasp for words and language to communicate effectively with customers and vendors to keep internet retail thriving.

But back to the swirl of ideas. I wish also to master my additional efforts. I want to be proud of my attempts and while I am willing to devote time to the labor, I am frustrated by failure, or what I deem as failure. My husband likes to ask “did you learn something?” which sends me into a tizzy and proclaiming I don’t wish to learn anymore, I don’t have time. But as all my diversions are time consuming, it’s still back to the learning drawing board.

So, to connect with the many depictions of the power of positive thinking*:

I will keep trying to learn Spanish. Una meta y un gran reto.
It is not knowledge, but the act of learning, not possession but the act of getting there, which grants the greatest enjoyment. – Carl Friedrich Gauss

I’ll return to writing, diaries and the occasional blog post. I am not sure if these are for me or for others, but when completed they make me feel I’ve contributed to history, with a positive force. I also enjoy reading other posts that inspire me. I was reminded recently by Anita that “It’s never too late to be who you want to be”
Just write every day of your life. Read intensely. Then see what happens. – Ray Bradbury

Most importantly, I will continue to aspire to be a good example for my family and encourage all of them to continue learning and reaching – as they encourage me to do the same.
Persistence makes all the difference. – Matt Mayberry

*quotes are often attributed to more than one source. I have referenced what I believe to be the original but apologize if it is not the first author.