Notes on Courage – Patsy Kelley
I am celebrating a happy 30th anniversary of
living in a small town, mountainous Idaho!Seems not that long ago that a friend envied my COURAGE
to leave my job, home and friends to move 2500 miles into the unknown. I did not
think of this as courageous, but adventuresome. I was excited to see, do and experience
new things. That in itself was motivating.
However, in retrospect, I guess it was an act of courage.
Mostly, it took courage to admit to stagnation in my work an life. In the 1980’s, a
steady paycheck provided incentive to stay put in a comfortable home and job.
Divorced, I had no children or mate to limit my imagination, and even my cats had died. So
why, in my mid-forties would I not want to set out on an adventure?
Long ago, my grandfather told me to be sure to “Go west
and see the mountains”. With a knowledge of geography and good map skills, I was
excited to follow his vision. In addition, I was tired of pushing around paper and people
for the government (it’s called Human Services burnout!). I wanted to experience new
things and felt capable of finding work to support myself. Naive? Impulsive? Irresponsible? –
or Brave and Courageous?
With some research, planning, saving, making arrangements
with supportive friends, I embarked on my escape from mediocrity, boredom and
security to a new life in the West. It was not without unknowns and difficulties, but
the results were energizing and very satisfying. I am glad I had faith in myself, and the
Universe, to make this adventure my new life.
Post Script:
Life is too short to do the same things all the time…some of the ways I have made my living: Junior High Teacher, College Geography
Instructor, Office for Aging Planner, Office of Employment & Training
Planner/Supervisor, Amateur Photographer, Cook/Waitress/Chef-Guest Ranch/Restaurant Chef &
Manager, Watercolor Artist, Organic Market Gardner.
