Today's Women of Age

Recently one of my dearest friends in the whole world flew out to visit me. And though we talk on the phone several times a month, it was grand to have days to catch up and delve into deep topics and just be together. (It had been at least four years since we last saw each other in person.)

In one of our conversations the question was asked: What dreams do you still have? For my girlfriend it is to see the Provence lavender fields in bloom. She has been talking about this for years. I love lavender but have no need to see fields of it in France.

And, for better or worse, I realized I no longer have any dreams or great unfulfilled passions or bucket-list items. I tried to think of something to share. Anything. And came up bupkis.

I have no great longing to take a cruise, finish my novel, learn to knit or travel to Tahiti. I had been trying to get back to the UK for a vacation for a decade (the Covid pandemic shut down my last plans) and it hasn’t worked out since so I’m letting that go. Done trying to make it happen. (Mind you I have been to England five times, but twice were for work so they don’t count.)

I’ve also learned that some things we pine for and long to do don’t turn out as wonderful as our dreams. Maybe you know how that is. You get to Rome and realize it’s hot and expensive and literally every tourist is trying to see the Trevi fountain too.

As I continued to ponder this I came to the conclusion that despite no longer having any “dreams” or bucket-list items, I do appreciate the little things more than ever—a good meal, a pretty sunset, coffee with a friend, get togethers with our adult daughters and even watching the goldfinches at our bird bath. I am content with a small life. I don’t require a lot of people or excitement or variety. And I still have passions that I pursue—reading, writing, gardening and running my vintage/antique biz. It’s enough.

And it is curious that my friend who longs to see the French lavender fields, has never taken any steps to do so, including renewing her passport and saving up for it.

Perhaps it’s the dream that’s the main thing. Having something to look forward to in the future.

How about you…any dreams left to fulfill?