In Search of Meaning

Tennis Anyone?

Does the word “Hobby” just piss you off? It does me. It may be a throwback to my budding feminist youth, when hobbies were activities for genteel women. Activities that were seen as unimportant because they didn’t generate income. Sewing. Canning. Quilting. Tennis. If a man had a hobby, it was usually collecting something. Building something, Restoring something. Golf.

I cringe when I read articles that suggest women, particularly aging women, “get a hobby.” For whatever strange animosity I hold toward the phrase, I feel we all, regardless of age, want to feel seen. We long to add meaning to our lives, and perhaps leave our mark behind. Am I wrong?

Pursuing Our Passions

I like to think that as we age, we move from our soul sucking day jobs, the never-ending household chores, the always taking care of others ­– to nobler pursuits. You may be starting a business for the first time. Or creating additional income streams to supplement your retirement fund. If you even have a retirement fund.

Maybe you finally have the time to pursue your creative endeavors? Your art. Your writing. Your craft or handiwork. Maybe you always wanted to knit a sweater but never had the time. Maybe you want to can peaches. Regardless of whether your passion is money making, or satisfies an itch down deep in your soul, I don’t think the word “hobby” begins to do it justice.

Answering Your Call

We all have a calling, however big or small. It’s a deep desire – whether world altering or profoundly self-satisfying. Our dreams and desires are ours, to do with as we please. Valid and meaningful, regardless of scope.

 Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t think of my deepest passions, or even my most frivolous past times, as hobbies. Every minute of every day is another chance to embody our truest selves. To pursue our dreams until the cows come home. No judgement. No wrong choices. You get to do You.

 What are your noble pursuits?