Started my new course this week – as most of you know I am looking to ‘expand my horizons’! Got off to a great start and I am really looking forward to stretching the old brain cells. I admit I was amazed at how young the group were (yes I am the oldest in this lot) and whilst it’s great to see young women extending themselves, I can’t help but wonder ‘where have all the women of a certain age gone’? Why aren’t you out there with me?
The teacher decided to play her favourite game from Spicks and Specks – yes, you guessed it: “What was your first concert?” Oh my God! How do I do this one?! She starts at the other side of the room and by the time it gets to me I can feel my heart pumping – do I skip 20 years and say someone I saw in the 90s or do I ’fess up’ and go for my first ever concert in the 70s? Oh God I say… ” I don’t know if you will know him”… I think I am embarrassed to say it. (Oh my God, was it really that long ago?) I blurt it out – yes, Festival Hall circa early 70s – Roy Orbison!! I sigh a sigh of relief, for I have chosen a path of truth, in the spirit of the game! (I’m not sure if the teacher really did know who he was or if she was just being kind – but there were a lot of blank faces around me).
Alas I say, I survived, although it would have been a hoot to compare my first concert with more of my contemporaries, so come on girls – get out there, have a go. Do a course, join a group, do a workshop, whatever – it’s really good fun and it makes you feel good about yourself.
Did you know that if you don’t already hold a nationally recognized qualification that you can be subsidised by the government in the VET (Vocational, Educational and Training) Sector? The range of courses and training available is huge and covers many areas. Many other colleges have great courses, as do community centres and neighbourhood houses, consider doing one just for fun or interest or to further your work life. You never know where one thing can lead you to.
Cath
ps I still love the ‘Big O’. Now I’m off to do my homework!
Source image: Creating Her Own Way by Frits Ahlefeldt
