Nature Abhors a Vacuum
On Monday I posted my last "Pleasure Peek". This had been a weekly quote, often directly from me or at least a comment on someone else's observation that I saw as helpful for living a life with pleasure as one of the key ingredients. I still believe pleasure is an essential nutrient and I've been getting very clear messages (thank you, Universe) and even better ideas for sharing my wisdom, thoughts, and experience.
For many years and starting decades ago (!), I thought I wanted to own a spa. In addition to offering up yummy facials and massages, I also envisioned being able to have all-day gatherings for women to come together to share and learn from each other. Taking on the business aspect of running a spa has lost some of its glitter for me although I still love the idea of having a company that creates jobs and whose purpose it is to make the world a better place. And, yes, as an aside, I DO believe that when we can practice profound self-care and indulge ourselves in massages and facials, we create an environment that is nurturing, kind, and caring.
In addition to my fantasies about a spa, I also entertained many thoughts of holding weekly salons. I remember being greatly excited when I first learned about these 18th century (it actually began mid 17th century) gatherings which started primarily in Paris. Mostly run by women, they were places where people had discussions, especially about art, architecture, literature, music, and philosophy. This era was known as the Age of Enlightenment and what really jazzed me up was that it was based on the concept that traditional authority was not always correct. There was an understanding that people could and should improve themselves and their circumstances through the exchange of ideas. Hallelujah!
One more road I explored, briefly, was owning a retreat center. I love going on retreat and I'm very good at knowing what makes up a good one. I almost purchased a space in western Massachusetts, however, my angels had other thoughts about that one at the time. It's interesting that the name of that facility is Angels' Rest Retreat.
All of this has come full-circle, so let me share a little of where this and I am going.
I have coined the term "Midway Women" to describe that segment of society of which I am a member and also, with whom I feel drawn to support. "Midway" sounds so much more lively (and, not so "stuck") than "mid-life", "menopausal or post-menopausal", or "middle-age". Midway implies movement toward something and also honoring all that has come before.
Since it feels like we are still on our way through life, my weekly comments on Monday have now been renamed, "On the way ...". This will not only be a celebration of our continuing journey, but also the opportunity to reflect on what's happening en route.
I am dedicated to creating half and full-day gatherings as well as retreats that might last anywhere from two and a half days to a full week. These might be right in my home town of Boston, somewhere else in the U.S. or even a more distant destination (anybody up for Tuscany?!?).
I am in the process of expanding my own Manifesto, outlining how I see ways for us to change, celebrate, and boost the flow of this part of our lives through inspiration, encouragement and the growth of community. I will share this with all of you.
While I have a lot of my own visions, I would love any and all suggestions. What do you need? What would you like? How can I help you along the way?
Midway Women are a force with which to be reckoned. We are bold and wise and knowing and we have finally lost a healthy amount of our concerns and worries about what others think. Frankly, we just don't give as much of a damn because we are recognizing fully coming into our own. This is what I wish for you.
Babs
P.S. Please help spread the word if you know others on this ride. Being a part of the weekly community will ensure getting the latest and greatest first before it's released publicly - send them on over to www.BarbaraLCummings.com.
