When the model holds, thirteen years of Elderhood is enough. There may come a stirring for something new, an adventure unforeseen earlier. The mind is ever active when allowed to percolate. Also, after nearly four score years, as Lincoln so deftly noted, it may be time to launch a new endeavor become a forefather/mother anew.

Mine occurred unwittingly. I had achieved all I desired since retiring. Was restless. NMSU offers a discount to seniors which prompted me to take two writing classes for credit: Creative Writing and Poetry. Great distraction, but incomplete.

 A bit desperate, I emailed Patricia Fripp, a speaking buddy from earlier days. Her tidy reply, "Gordon, Share your wisdom, Patricia" was a seed. All I needed to provide was the soil, water, sunlight and fertilizer (Of the latter, I have plenty. Ask anyone who has heard me speak.) A simple admonition catapulted me into another stage.

How about you? After a dozen years or so of Elderhood, did you feel an uneasiness about what was next? Was it time for another transformation? If so, go for it.

Leading to Stage 7: Enthusiast