Michelangelo supposedly scribbled the words “Ancora Imparo” in his sketches when he was 87 years old. That Italian phrase means “Yet, I am learning.”
He may or may not have made that statement, but he was still working on his art, still creating, until his death at age 88, and the meaning of those words attributed to him are true – learning never ends.
I have the words ANCORA IMPARO on my bulletin/inspiration board. I know that I too am still learning. Age is not a hinderance when it comes to learning or creativity or trying new things. Maybe it’s the impetus. Goodness gracious, if not now, when? Maybe next to ANCORA IMPARO, I will add “Not getting any younger.”
As we age, we know time is ticking. We also come to know there’s no such thing as “failure.” Try something. If you like it, great. If not, great. You’re still here. The world’s still spinning and you didn’t fall off.
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.”
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Age brings a new freedom, if one is willing to partake of it. Still hanging out on Planet Earth is a luxury and a privilege. Why waste it? Keep on experimenting.
ANY age is the best age to give it a whirl, whatever that “it” is for you. Doesn’t matter how old you are. YOU get to define success. YOU can take a chance on pursuing your passion. YOU can follow your creativity. YOU can listen to the whispers of your soul.
Whether you are in your 20s or 70s (or 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 80s, 90s, ANY AGE!), realize you are still learning. What a gift!
I still face bouts of feeling nervous, hesitant, fearful, etc. Yet doubt hasn’t done me in yet. There are still remnants of perfectionism in me, but I muddle through and do not let imperfection stop the train. The phrase “good enough is good enough” rings true for me now. I also heard a phrase today that made me smile: “Kick perfectionism in the nuts.” ;-D
So dabble. Explore. Try this. Try that. Follow your curiosity. Discover new things about yourself in the process. Maybe Ancora Imparo really means I am still learning about myself. Hell to the yes. That’s a worthy lifelong pursuit.
The continued learning, and learning about me – all kinds of pieces and parts – is a fascinating game. I hope you will keep playing too. We are all better off for it. Your creativity feeds mine. My exploration inspires you. Together we rise. Let’s keep playing!
Much love,
Kelly
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