 One year ago, on my 50th birthday, I decided to do something totally radical and completely out of character --- dye a purple (hot pink) stripe into my hair. As I reflect on the past 12 months, I realize it may be one of the best personal decisions I have ever made.
I am just now beginning to recognize the power of that purple stripe. At first I was a bit self-conscious, but I got over that fairly quickly. That splash of color in the otherwise drab, gray hair soon became my badge, my symbol, my super hero cape --- it quite literally transformed me from a meek, shy, unassuming, middle age momma into a confident, proud, and kick-ass, no holds barred, just getting started woman. Yes, I realize it isn’t the actual stripe that changed my behavior and attitude, but without that shot of color, I would not be as poised, or willing to step outside my comfort zone. I continue to be baffled by the phenomenon of costumes, make-up, and other physical alterations that allow people to do things they otherwise would not do. On the inside we all understand that we are the same person, but somehow that change of appearance makes it possible to step outside of ourselves, to go beyond our own personal barriers and limitations. I don’t, however, want to believe that I have become a character or that I am playing a role. I would, in fact, like to trust that the stripe has allowed the real me, that was hidden behind reserve and quiet for 50 years, to shine through. Let me be perfectly clear, I am still that ultra-sensitive, introverted soul who despises and will always try to avoid loud, brash, suspenseful, high-octane environments (ex. parties, bars, concerts, movies) and who chooses to spend her down time alone to recharge. I have found, however, that I am more honest about those preferences. I simply don’t (usually) make excuses anymore. There is one question that begs to be asked; is this newly found self-assurance really about the purple stripe or is it just another benefit of aging? I am not quite ready to answer that question, to be quite candid, hence the appointment (thanks, Candace), to get a refreshed and reinvigorated purple stripe, two days after my 51st birthday! DRC NEWS Profiles On Tuesday mornings, for the next several weeks, I will be highlighting some of the board members, parents, student members, and volunteers who are deeply committed to our mission. If you find these stories inspiring and would like to learn how to become a member of this phenomenal team, please contact Maria today. Fundraising - iGive is another way to shop for loved ones, this holiday season, and help DRC at the same time. Giving Tuesday is Dec 1st this year. Please consider giving to DRC. Third Thursday Info Session – This Thursday the 19th from 1-2, we welcome anyone who is interested in learning more about our programs to stop in for a visit. The student members are eager to share their stories and experiences of leaving school to take charge of their education. If you are not able to be at the Info Session, but still want info, please contact Maria to make an appointment. Volunteer Help Wanted (Desperately Needed): IT Support – we would like to get all of our computers, printer, and software functioning and networking properly. If you can assist us with this task, please contact Maria. Admin Support – To be completely honest, we need to hire an office manager. Until that becomes possible, however, we would like to invite a volunteer to save Maria and the Center from her inadequate organizational skills. Comments are closed.
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