Sometimes life’s late discoveries are borne out of necessity, as unforeseen complications cause us to course correct. In these “crossroads” moments, we are free to go down a different path, leaving behind what came before for something new entirely. My sister, Lisa, found herself in this position when she divorced from her husband of over 20 years. Such a dramatic and personal shift would leave anyone feeling adrift, yet it was in that period of ambiguity that led Lisa to discovering a new favorite, running.
She embraced this hobby wholeheartedly, as she began to train and would go on to compete in numerous 5k marathons. Not only did this activity offer Lisa a fresh perspective, one focused on self-care and physical wellness, but also on a new community of like-minded individuals, all sharing, healing and growing together while doing something they love.
In little time, my sister’s new hobby had become a healthy way of life, something to drive and challenge her, to push herself in pursuit of new experiences and values, and with new friends. Indeed, in this instance Lisa was open to change, using the ending of her marriage as a new beginning and an opportunity for reinvention. While the road may not always be clear, as long as we remain open to guiding winds of change, there are always new paths to discover when our favorites change.