When we’re very young, we have a lot of energy.   Tons of energy to jump into the newest project that catches our fancy, fall in love, take the road less traveled, spit in the face of convention and go our own way.   Physical energy to try a new sport, dig a flower bed, learn a new skill just because we want to.   Just when a little caution may be called for, we don’t have it.

Then, after spending time and energy on the things we get excited about, we suddenly, inexplicably become cautious.   We manage our time to get the most from it, sometimes spending precious time deciding how to spend our time.   Feeling ignorant about a subject, even one that interests us, is uncomfortable and embarrassing.   Experience tells us that learning curves are steep and require our precious time.

Here’s a thought-provoking question; Did we have energy and excitement because we were young or were we young because we had energy and excitement? Pure science has determined that exercise can increase muscle mass at nearly the same rate in people of 20 or 80 years of age, there is virtually no difference in our physiology at any age.   Our brains cannot be any different.   Conclusion?   Being a Newbie is good for you.   That wonderful/awful feeling of starting over has physical and mental benefits.

Currently I’m discovering the joy of spreadsheets, delving a bit into word-processing and learning Linux, just because I want to.   I’m not sure how yet but these may help in a future endeavor; it’s hard to quantify the benefits of learning.   In the middle of March I’ll begin the Texas Master Gardener’s program, sponsored by Texas A&M University.   After 10 weeks of classes and 50 hours of community service, I’ll be a certified Texas Master Gardener.   Who knows where that may lead?   I’m so excited!

Lisa Miller

Tags: newbie, learning curve, enthusiasm