Dear Girlfriends,
Sitting at the intersection, I was as lost as a goose in a new world. For the life of me, I couldn’t get my bearings. I was so turned around I couldn’t tell if I was heading north or south, and the rain only compounded my confusion. I had flown into San Jose early that morning and after a full day of client meetings, it was time to head to the hotel. But somewhere along the way I got lost. And to make matters worse-I was starving (low blood sugar significantly heightens my level of frustration).
As I sat at the light, I knew that to continue on my current path was a mistake; I also knew that the direction I had come from would not lead me to a plate of fried rice and a cozy bed. But which way to turn? I had neither enough information, nor experience in this part of town, to make a good decision, so I did what any intelligent human being (at least female) would do – I stopped at the convenience store and asked for directions from the man behind the counter. Ahmed became my navigational confidant.
Regardless of age or life stage, we all come to a crossroad from time to time – in our marriage; with our work; in our personal development. So where is “Ahmed” when we’re dazed and confused, not knowing which way to turn?
Surrounded by women who are rich in character, spunky in spirit, and successful not only in their careers but in living meaningful lives, I invited some of them to share with us their experiences while sitting at intersections that would change their lives forever.
If you’re sitting at a crossroad today, I hope their stories will inspire you. Unlike my friend Ahmed in San Jose, they can’t tell you which way to go, but I hope they will give you confidence as you turn on your blinker.
Better for the journey,
Ellen
I have had several crossroads in my life, but the biggest was when I filled for a divorce, and moved away from Texas. With two small children to care for and $18.00 in my pocket not to mention moving away from my best friend Ellen. My heart was broken and so was my spirit, but I had to get out of the situation I was in. The one thing that helped me most was the notes I found for weeks after my move back to Missouri. The notes were from Ellen and they helped me more than she will ever know. They gave me courage to move on with my life and to remember the truly great friendship that we shared. Thanks so much Ellen for being you. It has been 28 years but day by day and year by year they just keep getting better. And yes it was the right directions in my crossroad. Your Friend always Ina
I am presently at a crossroad. I have an opportunty to go to work for an excellent company as an office manager. I’m 55 years old, have run my own business for most of my adult life but have taken a few years off to care or my elderly parents. My Dad passed away last summer and my Mom is not expected to live long. It is a difficult time to take on a new career but I am being encouraged by everyone that knows me to go for it. All say that my Mom would want this for me and that I have put my life on hold for long enough. I am very excited about this new experience but also trepid about giving my Mom less of my time ( most of the time she is unaware that I’m there). Some times we have to let go to move forward.
I enjoy your nuggets, thanks Ellen,
Debbie
Choosing the path not well-trodden is always the difficult decision. Whom do you ask for encouragement or direction when you are blazing your own trail? Somehow, finding the courage to do the unusual or unexpected always has its own rewards. Most may consider these choices unconventional but the other odd ducks out there understand. On todays “to do list” is: try something different, eat something new, wear an untried combination, reach out to a stranger.
Leslie