Funny, I was exactly 40 when I came out of the Fam. Everything I had forsaken all for and committed to was now OUT THE DOOR and, honestly, I hadn't fully recovered from what I had gone into the Fam for in the first place - to lose my life (having been hopelessly addicted) that I might save it. I had still been in (the Fam) recovering up until 40 - meaning: there was no way that I could stand on my own two feet when I came out. I was still very much group support dependent and inspite of all the promises of God, sank into a VERY DEEP and DEVASTATING depression. I longed to get back into the Fam and to continue serving Him within the 'safety' of the group and until that loss was successfully grieved, the natural transition into midlife didn't really happen for me. It was only AFTER I got over coming out of the group that I could tune into the transition and, for sure, it did come naturally. I think I've experienced all of the the highs and lows, emotions, feelings, etc, that the good doc mentions.

I have been tempted to re-question the meaning of life, but really, in my case, I found the meaning of life when I found HIM. It's pretty clear to me what the meaning of life is: love the truth, love your neighbor, etc....

Current lifestyle? Well, I would like to win the lottery and do some philanthropic thing, but again, really, I could do the philanthropy thing with what I've in my hand right now, couldn't I, trusting that I'll reap what I sow. I can work to change what I don't like about my current lifestyle, too, and I am doing that rather than wishing I could.

I've taken up birding and reading, some fishing, etc, which have been great and ample mental health activities - just because I needed to and it was the right thing to do.

There is no doubt that I do 'long for adventure.' I do do adventurous things, though, and will continue to do so - within my income, of course.

I've had to learn to be graceful about my life and I like my life inspite of it's ups and downs, struggles, etc... I have been able to make peace with myself and my age, my transitions, my station in life... I attribute most of that to my faith. I

> Here are some interesting tips from Dr.
> Weil on the transition into mid-life.
> Healthy Aging Tip: Mid-Life Transition
> Mid-life transition is a natural process,
> and a normal part of maturing. It happens to
> many people, usually around age 40. Common
> issues that arise with mid-life transition
> include discontent, boredom or confusion
> with your current life/lifestyle, the
> questioning of the meaning of life, and a
> yearning to be adventurous.

> If you or a loved one is experiencing
> mid-life transition, coping will take some
> time and energy. Make sure you explore and
> accept your feelings, allowing yourself time
> to reflect and rejoice about life on a
> regular basis. Setting new goals and taking
> care of your mental health is also a good
> idea - join a group or seek out a therapist
> if necessary. Devoting extra time to your
> partner or spouse to rekindle your
> relationship and spending uninterrupted time
> with your children are important, as are
> pursuing hobbies and getting enough
> exercise, which can help you take charge of
> your health and your middle years.