That’s a question just about all of us were asked as kids.

When I was young, I knew exactly what I wanted to be—until it all changed a few weeks later. I’m pretty sure my answers included teacher, doctor, veterinarian and rock star. Never mind that I had little to no musical talent. 

For some people, a childhood dream turns into a college major, then a career doing exactly what they always imagined. For others, life does a complete 180.

I think about a friend from college. We were both journalism majors, working on the student newspaper. He was one of the lead editors and, after college, freelanced for the local daily paper before moving around the country to work for other publications. He was smart, driven, personable and a great reporter. Everything about his path pointed toward a promising career in media.

We lost touch after college, but like many friendships these days, we stayed connected on social media. Years later, I noticed he was going back to school and working toward his CPA license. Today, he’s an accountant.

I’ll admit, I was surprised. Not because there’s anything wrong with accounting— although I still shudder when I think about the four-week accounting class I took one summer in college—but because it felt so far removed from the direction he was headed. Not to mention, communications students tend to have a complicated relationship with numbers. I still remember a professor writing what he called a “simple” math problem on the board. A room full of communications students stared back in silence until someone finally reached for a calculator.

And yet, there my friend was, building a career in a field I would have avoided at all costs.

But who’s to say he won’t someday return to his journalism roots? Those early dreams do not always disappear.

That same theme carries into another story in this month’s issue. Have you ever wanted to write a book? Author Colleen M. Story reflects on the many people who have always wanted to do just that and encourages readers to consider whether now might finally be the time to start.

PUT YOUR PASSIONS TO GOOD USE

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and a good reminder that volunteering can be another way to reconnect with the interests, talents and passions that may have taken a backseat during your busy working years. Especially for all of you retired folks, it can be a way to rediscover purpose, explore long-held interests and to do something truly meaningful for others.

Fortunately, in communities like ours, there is no shortage of volunteer opportunities. At BeaconFest this month, we’ll recognize several outstanding senior volunteers during our Volunteer of the Year ceremony, celebrating the many ways older adults continue to make a difference.

SEE YOU AT BEACONFEST APRIL 16

Grand Junction’s funnest senior expo is just around the corner on Thursday, April 16, and inside this issue you’ll find our official show program to help you plan your visit—from stage entertainment and prize giveaways to vendor booths, free seminars and more. 

Did I mention everything’s FREE?

We can’t wait to see you there! For details, visit BeaconFest.com