I talked with a friend recently about her passion for photography. Her daughters are the same age as my own daughters – one in high school and one in college – and she has taken up photographing the kids at sporting events. Her photographs are stunning. She catches bodies in mid leap, contorted in ways I didn’t realize were possible. My sister-in-law received a degree in interior design recently, and is maintaining her dream of starting that second career somewhere down the road. I am still working as a Curriculum Coordinator during the day, and writing books by night. I’ve recently discovered all kinds of people who are working their nine to five while pursuing their passions on the side. Maybe this is what used to be referred to as the mid-life crisis. I’d like to think of it as the mid-life catharsis. To that end, I’d like to share the Holstee Manifesto. Click on the link to find out the story behind the words.

“This is your life. Do what you want and do it often.
If you don’t like something, change it.
If you don’t like your job, quit.
If you don’t have enough time, stop watching TV.
If you are looking for the love of your life, stop; they will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love.
Stop over-analyzing, life is simple.
All emotions are beautiful.
When you eat, appreciate every last bite.
Life is simple.
Open your heart, mind and arms to new things and people, we are united in our differences.
Ask the next person you see what their passion is and share your inspiring dream with them.
Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself.
Some opportunities only come once, seize them.
Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them, so go out and start creating.
Life is short, live your dream and wear your passion.”