Memories in Boxes

Learning does not have to take place in a classroom. I like learning. I like people and I like working on creative projects with them. They keep me thinking, they challenge me. Sharing knowledge helps me grow.

For the past seven years or so, my life has been a little chaotic at times. It’s been in a good way though! My husband and I have been lucky and have had opportunities to create and work.

As we now try to streamline and simplify our life, I have had to pack away many items until we are settled in a new location. I am now transitioning to another phase of life. It was somewhat sad to pack away personal items.

Each item has sentimental value. Boxes and books of photos also were packed and stored away. Through the years the house was filled with memories. Each item, a treasure tied to a memory.

We have a tendency to associate physical items with memories and get attached to them. But the funny thing about this is, after we pack them away, we sometimes forget about what we have in those boxes! We spend time picking out special items only to later realize that we may not be able to take them with us at some point. There will be things we leave behind.

As I move into the next phase of my life, I realize that my best memories are tied to the memories within my heart. I don’t need that much in terms of material possession. I realize that I need to keep learning and growing. That is most important to me.

Learning is a valuable part of our human experience and existence. At different points in life, we may decide that we no longer have a desire to keep working in the traditional sense.

Growth and learning are functions of our desire to find purpose. Purpose gives our life meaning. It is enriching to learn. As I change my life, new opportunities and purpose appear.

Today, I sent an open ended invitation to a sister- in-law to work with me on a project. Whether she agrees to work with me or not, is unimportant. What’s important is that I still feel the need to create, learn and grow. I want to live my life on purpose and choose new directions to grow. I see possibility and want to continue to create and learn.

We create and recreate ourselves all of our lives. At 87 years of age, Michelangelo was working on a project. The great renaissance artist was asked why he wanted to continue to work. He replied “I am still learning”. His humility allowed him to continue to learn and stay enthusiastic about his craft. We find purpose and meaning when we decide to live authentically.

Carolyn Nones Vazquez