I’m Back on Top of the List in My New Chapter

As I celebrated another birthday and watched the last of my four sons move out, it made me contemplate my new identity as a person. I wasn’t sure what I would do with the new void and all that “extra” time.
When I was single, I used to take various classes and travel, thus creating happy moments for myself.
As a growing young woman, I started writing, now I still continue with creative writing. While my children were growing, for the past 35 years I’ve been a teacher and have continued taking many classes to broaden my horizon. I got my Interior Design certificate after my four sons were born. My passion for painting was ignited only 15 years ago when I enrolled my youngest son in a local art class. I learned sculpting and mosaic over the years as it was important for me to nurture myself just like I did when I was single. I wanted to be a good role model, showing my children that I’m constantly bettering myself.
It’s never too early to build yourself from within and it shouldn’t end once you get busy parenting or start your career. We grow and evolve in every chapter of our lives because we always have desires and aspirations. It’s up to us to find the time to do something good for ourselves.
There’s a saying in the Talmud: “If I’m not for myself, who will be for me?” Nobody will ever have your best interest in mind like you. Go on a nature walk, visit museums, travel, take new classes and find anything that gives us enjoyment. Continue improving until you enjoy you own company. Others will enjoy your interesting company as well.
Create a balance in your life between work and play, social time and “me” time. Be good to yourself so when you’re on your own for whatever reason, you’ll still enjoy life to the fullest.
I love my children and miss having them around me. I’m also grateful that I’m not alone on this journey. While I travel with my husband I’m always looking forward to my fun “me” time, putting me back on top of the list, again.
Naomi young is a Judaic studies teacher, an artist and writer. You may write to her naomiyoung7@yahoo.com and visit her website www.naomiyoung.com.