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Heartwings Love Notes 994 - Getting Older is an Adventure

Heartwings says, "Adventures need never end no matter how old we are."

In his important book The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Joseph Campbell speaks of the many myths and tales that tell of journey of the hero. He says the journey begins when the hero, male or female, goes on an adventure. Then ultimately, he or she brings back something to share with his or her tribe, family, or whatever audience there is. The main factors are the adventure and what is to be gained from it.

I read this book when I was in my early to mid-twenties, looking to educate myself further as well as to stimulate my mind. Having grown up steeped in myths and fairytales, I found his book to be fascinating as well as relevant.

I have since read much more of his writing and found it to be helpful in ways one might not expect.

His concept of the hero's adventure is a useful metaphor for the aging process. It is a way to look at getting older with a more positive attitude than many have. Venturing into the great unknown of change and new ways of being is something we all do, and as we move through this adventure of aging, we can learn what may be brought back to be shared.

For instance, the effects in my life of the slowing down that comes with advancing years is something I had not anticipated nor had I thought about what they would be. Adventures typically feature going into the unknown—whether a strange land or other unknown potential. Learning is what results. I have had to learn to cope with not being able to get as much done as I might plan to do. Now I need to deal with the frustration that comes from this.

The heroic journey must entail trials and tests. Dealing with my ego is one for me. For most of my life as an adult I've made a serious effort to be efficient. I take pride in all that I am able to get done—or I used to. Now rather than bemoan what I have left undone I have to remind myself to take pride in whatever I am able to accomplish.

Time often seems to present trials. There are certain periods of the day and evening that whisk by at warp speed and when I notice how the time has fled, I feel like I'm on a fast track to nowhere. The unknown territory of my days for which I have no map or guide can be scary if I let it. What lurks behind that tree? Yet fear is no friend, just another test. What helps me to cope best is being able to share with others. As an elder it is my job to be a way shower for those who can use my lantern to help them see the way ahead, and I do that with joy.

May all your adventures be blessed with success.

Please do share your experiences with me at tashahal@aol.com. I so enjoy hearing from my readers, and I treasure your tales. Check my web pages for more to read at www.heartwingsandfriends.com.
 

I love to hear from readers and would be honored if you would comment and let me know any suggestions or thoughts. If a friend sent you this, you can sign up at my web site, www.heartwingslovenotes.com, where more love notes can be found in the archives.

Blessings and Best Regards,
Tasha Halpert
 

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