Circumstances may change, but presence makes the difference.
Nancy and Paul posted a list on their blog entitled What We're Excited About. I thought it would be appropriate for me to post a similar list. One big difference is that they had decided where they were going to live and buy property when they posted theirs. I still have several scouting trips to complete before I know where I am going to start my life as a serial renter. And all of that is to say that I am probably far more at the whim of circumstances than I would ever admit.
For obvious reasons, mine is a work in progress -- even though I suspect several of the items are universals.
- university nearby
- archaeological sites within driving distance
- central location for other archaeological sites
- warm, sunny days; cool nights
- new acquaintances -- some with a love of food
- the challenge of a new language
- time to read; time to learn; time to rest
- daily learning to survive
- facing mountains of difficulties -- and being repeatedly crushed
- long walks with Professor Jiggs before breakfast and after sunset
- living outside of a car
- offering help to others
- graciously accepting help from others
On this topic, I truly welcome comments. I realize much of this is personal. But I have already altered the list as I have learned from each of you.
6 comments:
If you want Universities, arch. sites and good weather, I'd suggest you check out Cuernavaca!
Pátzcuaro meets all of those desires. Morelia, just 40 minutes away, is a university town. Actually, Morelia itself meets those desires.
I visited Cuernavaca only once. It was a big disappointment. I think there is a reason it is not a major draw for Gringo retirees.
Nancy --
I have looked at Cuernavaca, but it is too close to Mexico City. By the way, I received my copy of "Mazatlan is Paradise" today. It looks like a quick read. Thanks for the suggestion. Mlre information is always helpful.
I read your list with much interest and many thoughts. From the perspective of being retired for the last eight years I have found the last items on your list are high on my list of things to do, from an eternal view. When I retired, I was seeking what would make ME "happy" and now looking back and towards the future, I am realizing what satisfies the deepest longings of my soul is what makes an eternal difference. Blessings as you meditate through the list. Remember "the best laid plans of men..."
Michael --
Drafting lists is often nothing more than restating a decision already made. I seem to be describing Pátzcuaro with my list. My next visit will determine whether I am in love from afar or whether it is the real thing.
Al --
Thank you for your very kind comments. I need to remind myself that writing something is not the same thing as living it. As I mentioned in an earlier post: "If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."
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