This morning, sitting at my computer, it occurred to me that maybe my readers would be surprised to learn just how my heart pounds on Monday morning as I prepare to send out Bright Ideas. I’m no computer geek! I think. What if I press the wrong key and don’t know how to fix it? You see, I am basically a “fearful” person: afraid of big dogs, driving at night, hurting someone’s feelings, falling (now that I’m 81) talking too much, not being loved—the list goes on and on. Still, I’ve learned through the years I’m capable of facing down fear and winning. I’ve learned mistakes are keys to fulfilling my dreams. I’ve learned to see my strengths and give myself credit. I’ve learned to stand tall through rejection and abandonment. In other words, I’ve learned to Be afraid and do it anyway! This is not just my story … this is our story—the story of every senior woman I know. I’m talking about YOU! I’m so proud of us!
Karen
Karen
I loved your article Sheila, I can relate. I miss seeing you and I miss the park. Thank you.
Sheila, what an inspirational message. I admire your energy. Thank you for taking time to find talent in everyone you meet
Dearest Cousin, You never disappoint when writing, whether it’s about other gifted senior women, or yourself. I so appreciate your vulnerability that helps us face the things that are so difficult. We all face many of the same challenges as we age. Being the same age of 81, we have experienced so many things together, and those experiences have given us much perspective that we can use to take on challenges that would seem unnatural for many at our age. I always enjoy being with you, and just want to say thank you for being you!! Our recent cousin re-union was beyond my expectations, as usual, and I also want to thank you for all the you did to make it a success. I enjoyed every minute.
I applaud your fortitude and tenacity! Your story is our story and you are to be congratulated not only for sharing it but for making it possible for us to share our stories. (That must have been a typo when you referred to your age. That can’t be right.)😊🐘
Sheila,
Thank you. Comforting to know I’m not the only fearful one! Our daughter has encouraged me to hold my nose and jump. She held my hand as once I held hers.
Pauline
Thank you Sheila….
You speak for all women in our age group. Those feelings are universal, but we try to live with them and overcome the negative things holding us back. We are courageous, strong, and brave. And still enjoy life.
Thank you Shiela. I’m adding that phrase to my “Words To Live By” file. Great inspiration as we age!
Definitely you have written most of our stories. We have probably all experienced these things and yet we have persevered and moved on. Lucky us. I always tell myself that there is one who loves me and that is God. He said: I have loved you with an everlasting love.” Of course that doesn’t mean I understand everything.
Hang in there ladies: We still have some more years left in us.
Great words and so true!!
Morning Sheila,
I am shocked to hear this revelation from such an accomplished woman!
Thanks for sharing your vulnerability.
I have been in your shoes and continue to feel this way many days.
But the satisfaction of conquering some of those fears is worth pushing through usually.
I still get those days where I get overwhelmed but talking/ brainstorming with other women helps a lot!
Are you still wearing your sparkly Cinderella shoes out in public? Be brave! Wendy
Love your thoughts. So often we say there is nothing to be afraid of to try to calm others. It doesn’t work instead makes others feel they can’t confide in us or invalidated. I love, love, love how acknowledging fear and doing it any way is so empowering. You rock!!! Thanks for sharing.
We have no choice if we want to live a fulfilling life and move forward.
Thank you for the inspirational message from your life lessons, I now have a little bit more courage to “do it anyway”. 🌹😊💕
Thank you for sharing from your heart. I learned so much more about you. I treasure you! ❤️