I am an old dog!
Nevertheless, I want to prove to myself that I am still capable of learning (especially about myself). I want to prove my passion for life. I want to regain focus. I want to be inspired again.
I want to read several books, practice yoga, reacquaint myself with the game of golf, relearn to cook, make some new friends, learn some new jokes. I will practice my faith.
I want you to know, this is not a mid-life crisis. I'm really happy being me! However, I recently realized my physical, emotional and spiritual exhaustion and deemed that a recharge was critical.
I will miss my wonderful, lovely wife immensely. I would not be able to go off and do this without a bucket load of understanding from Christine. Thank you, love of my life. Luckily, Chris and I will spend time together in Southern Spain at the beginning of November and then again in Scotland at month's end. This is by far the longest amount of time we have spent apart in 12 years. YIKES!!!
I cannot tell you how much I already miss my family and friends. All of you help define me. I am blessed by your friendship. I will think of you everyday, as always.
I'm in my office right now looking out the window toward land's end. I can't help wonder what's beyond. I can't help but be excited and afraid. It is new. It is different.
Stay tuned.
Stay well.
I'll miss all of you.
11 comments:
what a touching note! i'm excited for you, and i think it's an incredible opportunity for you to recharge, if you actually need recharging. i've never met anyone that has your energy and passion - you know what's important in life. you've been a dear friend to me, and whether you know it or not, you've taught me a lot about life.
please be careful, and please whatever you do, don't change! you are truly one of a kind...and you will be missed.
love - Jill
We will miss you tremendously while you are gone! 2 months without a Mikey fix is a long time. You better come back with some pretty damn good jokes to make up for it!
No one knows how to embrace a new situation like you do and I am sure you will live every moment to the fullest. I admire that you made this opportunity possible and am frightened by the idea that you may return with more energy! I have treasured our friendship for over a decade and hope you know how special you are to me!
Dear Michael -
I am so thrilled and proud of you. Someday I hope to be able to do the samne and wish you and us only rhe best! I will miss you tons and can't wait to see and experience the person you are going to be when you return.
Good lord - and the shopping we will ahve to do when you get back - a whole new wardrobe for you my friend!!!
I love you with all my heart!
xo,
Christine
Michael....
This is a life altering experiencing you are about to embark on. I applaude your ablity to recognize that we all need adjustments or tweaking in our life style and behavior..whether it is our golf game or our eating habits. I know you will be successful in this endeavor because you have always been a star on the horizon..I truly wish you every success and look forward to seeing you a slimmer and more toned Michael..But of course ..I like the old Michael very much too...Love Jubes
I love this warm an' fuzzy shit! Well stated, Michael, everyone needs a plan and every plan needs inspiration.
May the "FORCE" be with you...
I am sure that you will discover that the best of your past will be the worst of your future...good things happen to good people, you are one of the best!
Besos de España
Miguel - as a former student of the classics as you once were, I wracked my brain to come up with a quote that would help send you on your way. Unfortunately, I am also a student of beer and the best I could do was, "I'd rather have a free bottle in front of me than a pre-frontal lobotomy." Have a great time re-discovering the person we all know and love. Maff
Hey Sweets -
So glad you made it there safely! I miss you already. Have a blast in London!
xo,
Christine
"God has entrusted me with myself" Epictetus
My Friend Michael
As I read your first installment, I was caught unaware as to your path to catharsis. In you, I have always known a lofty and brave spirit, a true generosity of the mind and soul.
I suppose there is nothing more splendid, more rewarding than the individual who seeks a better way. And there is no one I'd trust more to find the guts to do this than you.
As I have told you before....God be with you, Mary Grace
Michael - a lesson I learned from a dear friend and professor in B-School...he taught me a truism that holds true in economics as well as our personal lives - "we always undervalue the alternative"...We get so fat, dumb, and happy that we tell ourselves there's nothing better out there...well, now it's up to you, bud - push yourself, stretch yourself, and find those undervalued gems - then bring them home to the people who love and miss you - Godspeed, Dan
Mike, have room for Grady Little on your trip? I think he's looking for a place to hide out. Let Grady know and see you soon.
Walshy....
I just returned from the quintessential Mike movie..."Mystic River"... and found the link to your journal. You have been in my thoughts today! I pray that you find all that you are looking for in your time in Scotland. You are such a special and amazing person, my friend.
Love and miss you-
Hil
Post a Comment