This next modern malama question came just in the nick of time. Convinced that perhaps this dabbling in Dear Abby was an official bust after only 2 posts and a screeching halt to all the hundreds of questions I thought I'd get- I was either going to start making up bogus scenario's OR re-evaluate whether coaching is my true calling. And just as fate would have it...in popped the question, "is this really it?" Literally. Thanks for sharing!
dear modern malama,
I'm 35, married, have two children, and a very promising career. However there are plenty of times when I stop and think to myself..."This is it? IS this really it? Am I searching for something else? Shouldn't I be satisfied with what I have now?" Everyone I know would kill to have what I have...but why do I still ask myself..."is this it?" Signed, Questions and Answers
dearest q&a,
My oh my- long gone are the days when our biggest dilemma centered around which hairspray had better volume control and long lasting hold- Aqua Net or Rave? Wouldn't you kill for just a few more minutes of mindless indiscretion? To think about nothing more than Goldschlager shots, shopping at Contempo Casuals, and masterminding the future? To be fearless and naive; when the sky was the limit and you believed in everything you said.
Fast forward 20 years and downing shots and frivolous spending is all but a thing of the past. (for most of us, at least) With a promising career on the horizon and a growing family to care for- what's really the alternative to being responsible? Truthfully- there is none. You've simply gotta do- what you gotta do. But does that mean that this is it? Are you supposed to be satisfied with a six figure income and a house in the burbs? You're absolutely right- some people would kill to have what you do. But clearly your doubts mean something more, something missing, something a cushy job and a golden retriever can't fix. So, here's a better question- one that's inspired by youth and fearlessness....instead of asking whether this is it, why not figure out, what's next? Your job, your family- that's covered. But YOU on the other hand- sky's the limit, right?! Or so you said once upon a time...
always, mm
well said! what's next indeed! where do we post questions? :)
ReplyDeleteHey beautiful! Drop me at line @ modernmalma@gmail.com for any pressing questions. Looking forward to hearing from you!
ReplyDeleteG here~
ReplyDeleteWow Les, you are so right! "What's next?" Great way to look at it! You rock. After reading your perspective, I just sat there sponging it in and found myself involuntarily nodding my head. It was a great light bulb moment.
Similar to Q&A, (minus a few things, namely the very promising career part...you know all about that) I think a lot about where I am/what I have, and I find myself wondering if this really is it. I'm very grateful for what I have, but also not content. The thought chills me on occasion and I get an odd feeling of being cheated out of what could be.
Up until now, I've always remembered to finish my cerebral beating sessions with the "glass is half full" routine to keep myself in check. However, that routine is well worn and needs some R&R. I'll add your fresh "what's next?" perspective to my arsenal...right next to my "quit your whining you panzy" routine.
See you in the cubicle Colosseum!
G
*********
Contempo casuals...I had to smile at that one. Which reminds me...is it just me, or is that girl you hear on those Jeans Warehouse radio advertisements more irritating than fingernails on a chalkboard...