Been thinking a lot about Our Ancestor August Wilson since I heard this on NPR. He made the choice I would make. No question.

I’d love to attain at least one-tenth of his courage. As 40 approaches like a Mack Truck in slow motion, with me unable to get out of the way 🙂 , I’m thinking of new mountains to climb. I get the feeling I should start here.

Wilson’s journey reminded me of my other inspirations. Once apon a time, I was 24 and freshly moved to Maryland. Exhausted trying to get my Master’s while simultaneously trying to keep my print journalism skills sharp, I used to spend weekends in bed, absorbing a collection of masterpieces from the genius of my Newark, N.J. hometown.

(I notice that Wilson listed Baraka and Bearden as influences. I’m glad we share those two.)

Okay, so Wilson started on the Century Cycle while in his early 30s. He finished “Radio Golf,” the last one, at 59. He died two years ago, a few months after his 60th birthday. And Baraka’s what, 73 this month? (Happy Birthday, Sir!) So, at 39, I got time.  🙂