Excellent "mid-life crisis"..........

by Jean Christian
(South America)

Up until my beginning forties I lived a hectic life in a big city (in Europe), had "everything" I wanted: the car, the house, the restaurants, the parties, the suits, a beautiful and loyal partner (we never married, but were together for 16-17 years), friends, travel... I had "it all".

When I was 42-43 one of my clients asked me to do a project in South America. My son was born when I was 41, which was around the time I decided to leave my long-lasting girlfriend. I then went to do the project in South America, which was scheduled for max 3 months, but a delay occurred, 3 months turned into 1 year.

I realized that the life I was living was far richer than before. I was thinking to myself, "hmmm, what do I do now?". After some months of reflection, I decided to stay in South America, worked on transitioning my business and establish myself deeper in-country.

I did some travels to Europe. A couple of years went by, and the mother to my son fell ill. I started aggressive court proceedings in Europe with the clear aim to obtain full custody for my son. This process took 6-8 months, and I was finally awarded full custody for my son.

I am now approaching 50 and my son is approaching 9 years old. We live together, only the two of us, he is very happy, and I am happier than I have ever been. My work, health and general outlook on life is bright and clear. These days I am looking for a new and serious relationship, but am taking it easy and slowly; taking care of my son, myself and my work. Have great friends, do a lot of training and am on a good diet. Every day, I see love, and it is straight in front of me; my son. I feel great privilege.

The "midlife Crisis"

In course of my project in South America, my client insisted on a quarterly general health
check. When I did the first check, the cardiologist discovered that one of the main arteries related to the heart was 96% blocked; he rushed to me to do an angioplasty. After a successful intervention, the doctor told me I would very likely pass away from a cardiac arrest any day, and for sure within 3-4 months.

In a way I cannot help thinking that my decision to make the dramatic changes I did when I was 42-43 years old was because of my "mid-life crisis”, and I that this "mid-life crisis” saved my life and ensured real and genuine happiness both for my little boy and myself.

Without having too much experience with "mid-life crises”, I am saying to my male friends, "just go for it, and go for it now....."

From a very happy "mid-life crisis” survivor.....