Month: September 2024

Just when many of us thought we were keeping up with the rapidly evolving technological innovations of the past 40 or so years – emailing, texting, casually using Siri for reminders, and asking Alexa to play our favourite tunes – along came Artificial Intelligence (AI) and game-changing tools like ChatGPT.

This friendly AI is designed to chat with you, answer questions, help with daily tasks, and so very much more. Imagine having a helpful assistant that lives on your computer, tablet, or phone, ready to help you with everything from drafting a blog post to writing your family history, from cooking to taking up new hobbies.

If that sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie – well, that’s because it kind of is! And while it may feel like wizardry, you won’t need any technical expertise or magic spells to use it. The first time I tried ChatGPT, I was amazed at how easy and helpful it is.

If you know little about AI and have never heard of ChatGPT, don’t worry! I’m here to guide you through what it is, how it works, and why even the most technophobic of you might find yourselves enjoying having a new digital buddy.

What Exactly Is ChatGPT?

Let’s start with the basics. ChatGPT is what’s known as a large language model. Think of it as a super-smart chatbot – a little like those automated helpers on websites, but way more powerful (and a lot less irritating).

Launched by a company called OpenAI in November 2022, ChatGPT has quickly become a game-changer in how we interact with technology. There are now a number of very similar tools, but ChatGPT is probably still the most well-known.

It’s been trained on vast amounts of data, giving it an incredible ability to generate intelligent, human-like responses. But what does that mean for you? Well, it means that ChatGPT can help you with just about anything. Whether you need help with travel plans, ideas for hobbies, a story to read to your grandchildren, planning a meal, or even a business, ChatGPT has you covered.

5 Real Ways ChatGPT Can Help You Today

Here are just a few ideas for ways to make use of ChatGPT.

Meal Ideas at Your Fingertips

ChatGPT is great for those moments when you’re stuck on what to cook. You can ask for recipe ideas based on what’s in your fridge or tailored for guests with dietary restrictions. In no time, you’ll have a list of recipes plus your shopping list of ingredients if needed.

Staying in Touch with Friends and Family

Let ChatGPT help you plan an outing or suggest fun ideas for games with your grandchildren.

Writing Assistant

If you enjoy writing for fun or work, ChatGPT can help you with everything from brainstorming ideas to polishing your final draft. Even better, if you hate writing, just tell it what you need to say, and it’ll generate that letter of complaint or birthday speech (complete with jokes) for you.

Learn Something New

Want to improve your bridge game or learn a language? ChatGPT can be your tutor, providing tips and guidance or testing you on your French vocab.

Quick Summaries

This is one of my personal favourite uses. If you’ve got an article or a long email you don’t have time to read, ask ChatGPT to summarise it, and you’ll have the key points in seconds.

Embrace the Future – Try It for Yourself

The world of AI might seem intimidating at first, but it’s really just another tool. Think of it as a Swiss Army Knife for your brain – with countless uses all in one place.

The best way to find out how it can help you is to try it. You might just find that ChatGPT becomes your new go-to for everything from planning your next trip to exploring new interests.

If you’re curious to see how it works, you can watch my video where I walk you through setting up your free ChatGPT account and demonstrate how to get started.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you tried ChatGPT or any other AI tools? What do you think of them? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!

Surprisingly, my partner and I had no plans for the upcoming 4th of July holiday by the end of June. As we sat on the patio, enduring the sweltering heat of the Texas summer, we agreed it was time to escape to a cooler destination.

Where might we go? During summer, many Texans head to the mountains of Colorado to cool off. Colorado is a splendid choice, having loved it over the years. But I was feeling a deep desire for a new adventure.

Banff National Park, a destination I’d always wanted to explore, popped into my head. Then my heart sank since it was unlikely we could pull it off at such a late hour during a peak travel season for the area.

Time to Embrace Spontaneity

I’m not the most spontaneous of travelers, but I love adventure! And, I’m getting better at planning trips on short notice, although advanced planning can save money and provide more options. As luck would have it, the stars aligned, and we found flights and lodging within 48 hours of departure.

No surprise, the only lodging available in or near Banff on short notice was expensive. But it was also perfectly beautiful! Our 7-night stay at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel was priceless (thank you travel points). The hotel and its grounds are truly magical, with idyllic views.

We experienced a mixed bag weatherwise, with a couple of misty days. Truthfully, the mist and low clouds created a dramatic, otherworldly landscape that was equally beautiful. On one of those moody days, we opted for spa time at the hotel. We also took pleasure in the pools, sauna, and the hot tub (which had a secluded spot in a little grotto).

Banff National Park

If you are not familiar with Banff National Park (BNP), it is in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada. Known or unknown, get ready to be wowed if you’re a fan of nature and beautiful scenery! Travel Information Banff and Lake Louise, is an excellent introduction to the area.

The closest international airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is easy to navigate, as is the drive to BNP. It takes approximately 1 hour, 45-minutes (90 mi./144.8 km.) by car to reach the town of Banff via the most direct route along the TransCanada Highway. Approximately 75 minutes (77 miles) into the drive, you reach the entrance gates to BNP.

Ultimate Guide to Purchasing a Banff Park Pass will help you navigate getting a park pass, which is required to tour within the area. Long lines of traffic greeted us as we arrived at the entrance gates, likely because of peak travel season and the upcoming Canada Day (July 1^st) holiday. Being overwhelmed with the number of cars, the gatekeepers began motioning folks through, so we purchased our pass at our hotel.

How to Get Around

Do you need a rental car to visit this area? No, but this is an instance where I’m glad we chose that option. It provided more flexibility in timing and pacing. Mainly for exploring sites along the Icefields Parkway. We also enjoyed our leisurely drive along the scenic loop around the Banff Springs Fairmont golf course. You may find Should You Visit Banff With Or Without a Car helpful in your decision making.

The town of Banff is easy to navigate on foot and/or using public transit. Our hotel, on the southern outskirts of town, provided free bus passes we used occasionally. We also enjoyed walking to and from town in late afternoon and early evening when wildlife was more active (namely deer and elk).

Lakes, Lakes, and More Lakes!

Because of crowds and parking challenges, we opted to take a ½ day bus tour to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. We were happy with that choice and had the bonus of learning the history of the area from our knowledgeable bus driver. Especially the background of the Animal Bridges and Crossings we encountered along the way.

After visiting the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on the tour, we were glad there was no availability (we were hoping to spend 2 nights at the lake). Don’t get me wrong, it’s also a beautiful property. However, it comes with enormous crowds visiting the lake (and the hotel) throughout the day. For us, a couple of hours at Lake Louise was good enough.

Although the beautiful nearby Moraine Lake was busy as well, it didn’t feel as crowded. If I have the opportunity for a return visit, I’d love to spend a night or two at Moraine Lake Lodge. The lake is stunning, and the thought of having it (almost) to myself early in the morning and in the evening makes me smile.

We also visited other beautiful lakes on our road trip day, my favorite being Peyto Lake, which included a scenic little hike to get there. If you opt for a rental car, you will have the flexibility to visit as many lakes as your heart desires. 26 Most Beautiful Lakes in Banff can help you decide which ones you’d like to see.

Experiencing Banff

I’ve already mentioned a few of the amazing experiences we shared in Banff. These are a few more of our adventures.

Johnston Canyon Hike Was a Favorite!

We enjoyed the scenic hike to the upper falls, passing the lower falls along the way. It wasn’t an easy hike (to us), but it was doable and a must-see. Arriving before 9:00 a.m. parking wasn’t a problem. Upon our exit, the crowds had increased. I recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon.

The Icefields Parkway Was Priceless!

We slept in the day after our arrival, enjoyed breakfast at the hotel, and set out on one of the world’s most highly rated scenic drives. Cloudy, drizzly weather kept us company on the first part of our journey, creating a fantastical landscape. As we approached the Columbia Icefields bordering Jasper National Park (also our turnaround point), the clouds transitioned to sunshine.

The drive (one-way) is around 2.5 hours with no stops. We opted to pull over at Bow Lake (right off the highway), Peyto Lake (short hike from the parking lot, and a favorite), and we explored the Athabasca Glacier.

Ideally, I would spend a full day enjoying this epic road trip, beginning early in the morning. If you drive, be sure to gas up, take along some snacks, and take advantage of the indoor facilities available at the Saskatchewan River Crossing.

Bow River Float Trip Was a Peaceful Trip

It was a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery from the vantage point of Bow River, including picturesque views of Bow Falls (upon launch), the Banff Springs Fairmont, and the Banff Hoodoos.

Banff Gondola, While Expensive, Will Be Worth It for Most

The sweeping views from the summit of Sulphur Mountain are incredible. You are also highly likely to see mountain goats at the top, especially near the observation deck outside of the gondola.

Tidbits

We saw a lot, but much remained undone. So much so that I’d love to revisit this jewel in the future! Here are a few extra bits of interest.

• Canada Rockies by Rail.
• Head to These Spots to visit Banff’s Spectacular Wildlife.
• 22 Hidden Gems in Banff.
• 25 Best Banff Restaurants to Try. Of this list, we enjoyed and can vouch for the fabulous Bluebird Wood-fired Steak House and Farm and Fire.

Budget Friendly Banff

Vacations in Banff, even when booked in advance, can be costly. Banff on a Budget: Banff National Park Travel Guide is an excellent resource that includes ways to save money when planning your visit. I’ve listed a few of the suggestions below:

• Plan and book way in advance.
• Visit during shoulder season (September, October, May and June).
• Compare pricing on car rentals from the airport vs. the center of town in Calgary.
• Stay in nearby Canmore.
• Camp.

Accessible Banff

For those with disabilities who might like to visit Banff, the article Accessibility may be helpful in planning your trip.

Fall, Winter and Spring in Banff

As I’m writing this article in September, I can’t help but imagine how beautiful Banff is in the fall. What to Expect When Visiting Banff in Fall is an excellent resource for that. Also, for all the fall loving members of this community, you might enjoy reading my Sixty and Me article Fabulous Ways to Celebrate Fall!

Then there’s winter in Banff. Can you imagine spending Christmas there? If winter sports aren’t your thing, Banff has plenty of other winter activities to offer. Planning a Trip to Banff in Winter is a lovely article to assist you. It contains many suggestions for lots of winter fun!

And last, but not least, check out Top Ten Spring Activities in Banff if you’re curious about traveling to Banff during springtime!

It’s a Wrap!

I have no complaints, but in hindsight, and with a bit of advanced planning, my ideal trip to the area would look like this. Fly into Calgary and drive to Moraine Lake for 2 nights. Hike in the area and visit Lake Louise. Continue on the Icefields Parkway (seeing and doing as much as your heart desires), and arrive in Jasper National Park for at least 2 nights. Return drive along the Icefields Parkway (last chance to see what you missed) and arrive in Banff for at least 5 nights, more if possible.

While Jasper National Park is a separate experience, it’s likely worth visiting both parks if you’re already investing time and money. Also, as for bear sightings, folks we chatted with had spotted several bears in Jasper National Park, especially on the grounds of the Fairmont Jasper Lodge. Sadly, this hotel is currently closed because of wildfire.

What a joy it was to visit Banff National Park! And whether an impromptu visit or otherwise, Banff most certainly should be on your bucket list!

Please Join in the Conversation

Have you traveled to Banff National Park? If so, what were your favorite experiences? What advice can you offer our community if planning a visit to Banff?

Do you enjoy listening to podcasts? Do you enjoy traveling? Exploring the world through travel podcasts is an excellent way to gather inspiration, tips, and stories from fellow adventurers. 

Here are some of the best travel podcasts to tune into:

1. Women Who Travel – This podcast features interviews with influential women in the travel industry, sharing their journeys, tips, and stories from around the globe.
2. The Travel Diaries – This podcast brings you conversations with famous guests sharing their travel stories and tips.
3. The Globetrotter Lounge – Features interviews with women who have found creative ways to travel more.
4. She Explores – focuses on the outdoor adventures and travel experiences of women.

Keep reading to discover more travel podcasts by women travelers. 

Travel Podcasts for Women

Whether you’re planning your next trip, dreaming of far-off places, or seeking advice on navigating the travel world, these podcasts offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. 

Tune in, get inspired, and start planning your next adventure today!

Women Who Travel

Produced by Condé Nast Traveler, “Women Who Travel” is hosted by Lale Arikoglu and Meredith Carey. This podcast features interviews with influential women in the travel industry, sharing their journeys, tips, and stories from around the globe.

Perfect for: Women looking for inspiring stories and practical travel advice from industry experts.

The Travel Diaries

Hosted by travel journalist Holly Rubenstein, “The Travel Diaries” brings you conversations with famous guests sharing their travel stories and tips. From dream destinations to travel mishaps, this podcast covers it all.

Perfect for: Those who enjoy celebrity travel stories and discovering new travel destinations.

The Globetrotter Lounge

Lisette Austin, aka Jet Set Lisette, hosts “The Globetrotter Lounge,” featuring interviews with women who have found creative ways to travel more. From budget travel hacks to solo adventures, this podcast offers valuable insights.

Perfect for: Women seeking practical tips on how to travel more frequently without breaking the bank.

A Broad Abroad

Hosted by travel journalist Erin Van Rheenen, “A Broad Abroad” dives into the stories of women who have moved or traveled abroad. The podcast covers the challenges and triumphs of living and exploring in new countries.

Perfect for: Women contemplating or living the expatriate lifestyle.

The Wander Woman Podcast

Join host Phoebe Smith as she takes you on audio adventures around the world. “The Wander Woman Podcast” combines storytelling with travel tips, focusing on solo female travel experiences.

Perfect for: Solo travelers looking for inspiration and practical advice.

The Solo Travel Woman Podcast

Hosted by Sara, “The Solo Travel Woman Podcast” empowers women to embrace solo travel. The podcast covers a range of topics from safety tips to destination guides, all aimed at encouraging women to explore independently.

Perfect for: Women eager to go on solo travel adventures with confidence.

The Thoughtful Travel Podcast

Hosted by Amanda Kendle, “The Thoughtful Travel Podcast” dives into the personal and profound aspects of travel. Amanda and her guests discuss meaningful travel experiences, cultural insights, and the transformative power of exploring the world.

Perfect for: Women who appreciate deep, reflective conversations about travel and its impact on our lives.

Postcard Academy

Hosted by Sarah Mikutel, “Postcard Academy” focuses on helping women live abroad and travel smarter. Sarah interviews a variety of guests who share practical advice, inspiring stories, and tips for navigating life and travel in foreign countries.

Perfect for: Women considering living abroad or looking for smart travel tips and inspiration.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Travel Podcasts

Listening to travel podcasts can be both entertaining and educational, but to truly benefit from them, consider these tips:

Create a Playlist

Curate a playlist of your favorite episodes or podcasts for easy access during commutes, workouts, or downtime. This ensures you always have travel inspiration at your fingertips.

Take Notes

Keep a travel journal or digital note-taking app handy to jot down valuable tips, destinations, or contacts mentioned in the episodes. This will help you remember important details when planning your trips.

Engage with the Community

Many travel podcasts have accompanying social media pages or online communities. Join these groups to connect with like-minded travelers, ask questions, and share your experiences.

Follow Up with Research

Use the insights gained from podcasts as a starting point for your research. Look up recommended destinations, accommodations, and activities to get a comprehensive understanding before making any travel plans.

Share with Friends

If you come across an episode that resonates with you, share it with friends or family members who might also enjoy it. This can spark discussions and even lead to collaborative travel planning.

Support the Creators

Many podcasters offer additional content, merchandise, or opportunities for listener support. Consider contributing to your favorite podcasts to help them continue producing quality content.

Read 9 PODCASTS FOR WOMEN OVER 50 to discover a few more amazing podcasts and learn about the top platforms where to listen to them. 

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you listen to travel podcasts? Which ones are your favorites? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. 

Heading back to school as a woman over 60 is both an exciting and daunting prospect. Whether you’re pursuing a new career, finishing a degree, or simply looking to expand your knowledge, this journey comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. I had a friend just this week head back to school to study acupuncture! She is on her way to realizing her dream!

Why should the kids have all the fun? Let’s explore the ABC’s of heading back to the classroom for us women over 60 as well!

A: Adaptability

One of the most crucial skills you’ll need is adaptability. The world of education has changed significantly since you were last in a classroom. From online learning platforms to modern-day teaching methods, being open to these changes will make your return to school smoother. Embrace new technologies, participate in online discussions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling with something unfamiliar.

Additionally, balancing school with other responsibilities, such as work or family, requires flexibility. You might need to adjust your schedule, prioritize tasks, or seek support from loved ones to make time for your studies.

B: Balance

Finding a balance between your studies, work, and personal life is vital. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, so creating a schedule that works for you is essential. Set aside specific times for studying, but also make sure to include time for relaxation and self-care. Remember, burnout can be just as much of a threat as falling behind in your coursework.

It’s also important to communicate with your family and friends about your new commitments. Their support and understanding will be key to maintaining a healthy balance as you navigate this new chapter in your life.

C: Confidence

Returning to school can stir up a mix of emotions, including doubt or anxiety. It’s natural to feel out of place or worry about being older than your classmates. However, remember that your life experience is a valuable asset. The wisdom and perspective you bring to your studies can enhance your learning and contribute meaningfully to classroom discussions.

Confidence in your abilities is crucial. Trust that you have what it takes to succeed, and don’t shy away from participating in class or reaching out to professors for guidance. Building a support network of peers, mentors, or advisors can also boost your confidence and provide encouragement when you need it most.

Advantages of Going Back to School

Returning to school in your 60s offers numerous advantages that can significantly boost your confidence and self-esteem. For one, it can open up new career opportunities or pave the way for advancement in your current field. Acquiring new skills and knowledge makes you more competitive in the job market and can lead to higher earning potential.

Additionally, the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a course or earning a degree can be incredibly empowering. It serves as a reminder that you are capable of achieving your goals, no matter your age. This newfound confidence often spills over into other areas of your life, enhancing your overall sense of self-worth and satisfaction.

Education also provides a platform for personal growth. Engaging with new ideas, meeting people from different backgrounds, and stepping out of your comfort zone can broaden your horizons and enrich your life in unexpected ways.

Learning Options: In-Classroom and Remote

Today, there are more learning options available than ever before, making it easier to fit education into your life, regardless of your circumstances. Take the time to pick the setting that best suits your schedule and lifestyle.

In-Classroom Learning

If you prefer face-to-face interaction and the structure of a traditional classroom, in-person classes might be the right choice for you. Many community colleges, universities, and adult education centers offer flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate working adults.

Remote Learning

Online education has become increasingly popular and offers unparalleled flexibility. Whether you want to take a single course or complete an entire degree online, there are countless options available. Remote learning allows you to study at your own pace, from the comfort of your home, and often at a lower cost than traditional in-person classes.

Hybrid Options

For those who want a bit of both worlds, hybrid programs combine online coursework with occasional in-person sessions. This can be an ideal solution if you need flexibility but also value the opportunity to engage with instructors and peers in a classroom setting.

Types of Learning Women Over 60 Typically Explore

When women over 60 go back to school, they often explore various types of learning that align with their career goals, personal interests, and life circumstances. Here are some common paths:

1. Career-Oriented Degrees and Certifications

Many women return to school to pursue degrees or certifications that will advance their careers or enable them to transition into new fields. Popular areas of study include healthcare, education, business administration, and information technology. These programs are designed to provide the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in specific professions, often with flexible learning options.

2. Professional Development Courses

Short-term courses or certificate programs focused on professional development are also a popular choice. These courses allow women to update their skills, learn new technologies, or gain expertise in specialized areas without committing to a full degree program. Fields like project management, digital marketing, and leadership are commonly explored.

3. Personal Enrichment Classes

Not all education is career-driven. Many women over 60 choose to take classes that enrich their personal lives, such as art, history, literature, or languages. These courses provide an opportunity for intellectual growth, creativity, and the pursuit of lifelong learning passions.

4. Continuing Education for Licensure

For women already established in careers that require ongoing education, such as nursing, teaching, or law, continuing education courses are often necessary to maintain licensure and stay current with industry standards.

5. Entrepreneurship and Business Courses

With the rise of entrepreneurial opportunities, many women over 60 explore business courses that teach the fundamentals of starting and running a business. This is particularly appealing for those looking to turn a passion or hobby into a full-time career.

What Would You Put in Your Backpack?

Now, let’s add some fun to the conversation! If you’re heading back to the classroom, you might be wondering what to pack in your backpack. While the days of cartoon lunch boxes and brightly colored pencils might be behind you, there are still some essentials that will keep you organized and prepared. Besides the laptop, colored pencils and brand new notebook, what are some items you would make sure you didn’t leave home without? Share in the comments below!

Going back to school is a brave and empowering decision. By focusing on adaptability, balance, and confidence, you can make the most of this opportunity and achieve your academic goals.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you signed up for any courses this autumn? What are you preparing to study? If you are heading back to the classroom, share in the comments below! We would love to cheer you on from the sidelines!

The New York Times headline hit its mark: “Painting Found in a Maine Attic Sells for $1.4 Million.” Thoroughly hooked by that one line, I eagerly read about Portrait of a Girl, believed to have been painted by Rembrandt, which could be worth as much as $15 million. Best of all, this 17-century portrait hadn’t been hanging on the wall or over the fireplace; an appraiser found it in a stack of other paintings in a farmhouse attic.

This is the stuff of imagination – of Indiana Jones and Nancy Drew. Its appeal runs deep and for far more than the obvious windfall of a castoff suddenly worth millions. Hidden treasure reminds us of our longing to discover that rare gem buried deep within our own lives.

As writers and other creatives, we can embrace this quest into two distinct but interconnected directions. One delves into storytelling – the other takes us deeper into ourselves.

The Lost Is Found – a Tale of Discovery

The storytelling path leads to narratives as diverse as Dashiell Hammett’s classic detective novel The Maltese Falconand Donna Tartt’s coming-of-age epic The Goldfinch. These stories employ an “objective correlative” (a term coined, or at least used, by T.S. Eliot). The best explanation I ever heard for this literary term is “an object that stands for more than just itself.”

I used the same device in my first novel, The Secrets of Ohnita Harbor, in which a small medieval cross – first disregarded as a piece of kitsch on the Christmas decoration table at a community rummage sale – turns out to be a 14^th century artifact linked to Saint Catherine of Siena.

What works in fiction also adds depth to memoir, essay, and other stories of our lives. It may be a lost button from a favorite coat, an old watch that belonged to a beloved aunt, a ring whose value is far more sentimental than monetary. Although these lost treasures won’t merit the same headlines as a forgotten Rembrandt, the search to find them is no less a quest to find the object and uncover meaning.

Many years ago, I wrote an essay for Huff Post titled, “What a Lost Earring Taught Me About Life – And Hope.” I described sitting in a coffeeshop with a friend and suddenly discovering an empty earlobe instead of a gold hoop – half of a pair given to me by my late father. As I wrote, “It didn’t take much imagination to connect my retraced footsteps through that coffeeshop to my father who died seven years ago this month. On that short journey from my table to the door, I was reminded that the occasional loss is the byproduct of having been in the game.”

We all have these stories to explore and tell, about objects that speak greater truths than merely “I misplaced my wallet.”

• What lost treasure do you miss or mourn long after it’s gone?
• What rediscovered “gem” (literal or figurative) has brought you true joy?
• What meaning did you discover in the quest – whether successful or not?

The Treasure Hunt Within

Hope, faith, luck, courage… Despair, disbelief, abandonment, discouragement… These are the emotional steppingstones along any path toward lost treasure. On my long-ago search for my lost earring, I scoured under the table, in the collar of my shirt, across the floor… With each futile attempt, the sense of loss deepened. The discovery was made all the sweeter because I took one more step, risking disappointment and looking foolish.

Here we find the treasure hunter archetype – risk-taking, swashbuckling, bravado-spewing – who goes boldly into the darkest forests, plunges into the deepest canyons, climbs the highest mountains, and undergoes every other hyperbolic and clichéd challenge.

A fascinating Psychology Today article about real-life treasure hunters examined their motivations, including the feeling of just having to do it. The author goes on to quote philosopher Soren Kierkegaard who extolled “the benefits of striving because the journey might offer more to us spiritually than arriving at our destination.”

Although a stray button or a misplaced earring doesn’t evoke that much drama, the journey to find any lost item requires emotional and psychological investment. Suddenly, we see that we really are more resilient and determined than we might have thought otherwise.

Such realizations add tone and texture to our stories that relate far more than a simple search. In seeking and finding what we’ve lost we regain some missing part of ourselves.

Then the real discovery begins.

• What did you learn about yourself in the search for what was lost?
• How did you reconcile an unsolved loss – the treasure that was never found – and what emotional lessons did you learn?
• What are you doing with your recovered treasure – the physical object and the emotional lessons?

Hidden treasures abound! Although we may never find rare art or a priceless jewel, we are surrounded by a host of things waiting to be rediscovered. And each has something to teach us about life and ourselves.

Let’s Continue the Conversation:

When and where have you searched for your own lost treasure? When you retell the story of that quest, what feelings are evoked? What does the treasure hunter’s quest teach you about yourself?