I have a colleague who had a certain item on their bucket list.  Something that they believed would make their career complete, something that would look good on the resume. Unfortunately with that bucket list item came some responsibilities that I’m not sure they were prepared for.  And instead of pulling up the big boy pants and getting their hands busy, they settled for the bucket list job in name only.  The only problem is that when they made the goal part of their bucket list, they didn’t think about how their  inaction would hurt others in the process.

I’m afraid my bucket list has been more reactive than proactive, just because I believe I don’t dream big enough most of the time.  I have had some mountaintop experiences that I would consider things to mark off the list, but a lot of times they were things I did not imagine or anticipate.

For instance, my experience the last several years learning at the Metropolitan Opera.  I did not pursue this opportunity and was fortunate enough that a friend recommended me to participate.  Through this bucket list experience, I have now danced at Julliard, composed simple music arranged by a Julliard professor and sung by an opera singer.  I have seen several operas at the Met and shows on Broadway.  But there is an attachment to the bucket list item.  I must share what I’ve learned with others.  And I think that’s the lesson we need to learn from everything on the bucket list.

And this particular bucket list item has given me gifts I did not anticipate.  I met and got to know a wonderful colleague and had the opportunity to work with her and her students, which in turn helped my students as well.  I had the opportunity to meet like minded people from all over the country.  I began to be more independent, being okay to be alone and take care of myself.  I rediscovered myself as a musician and not just a music educator.  My eyes were opened to different experiences and points of view and boy, have I learned!  Every bucket list item should be something that makes you think and learn.

Another bucket list item for me is to begin speaking to groups, hoping to inspire them and excite them about teaching and advocating for music.  And lo and behold, that bucket list item is beginning to happen.  Not that I’m the world’s greatest speaker, and I know I have a lot to learn, but to whom much is given, much is expected.  So it’s my turn to do what others have done for me, and it provides an immense sense of satisfaction and I get to meet the most wonderful people.  And while I suppose it will look good on the resume, I also know it will be work. But a very satisfying kind of work.

Dreaming big has always been hard for me, but with each item checked off the bucket list, I dare to dream a little bigger.  I was blessed to serve as president of a wonderful state organization, encouraged and mentored by others.  I loved the work so much and enjoyed the people I worked with, so my next dream was to serve on a national board.  I ran twice for the position before I was chosen to lead.  Again, I believed I could do it, and others encouraged me, so I pursued it.  Now the work begins and with it, an opportunity  to share what I learn with with others.

This past Sunday I turned 58 years. old.  I remember when my mother was 58 I thought she was old.  And for awhile I believed that I was getting too old to dream anymore.  Too old to pursue other areas of interest, getting close to retirement.  But the truth is, my dreams are expanding and getting me excited for the next adventures to come, and   encouraging me to expand the bucket list for whatever time there is left.

I hope this inspires others to think about their bucket list.  What is it you really want to do and what is keeping you from doing it?  Will doing it make you a better person, both for you and your family and friends?  Will it be something you can share with others and enlighten their lives as well?  Is it something you’re willing to work for?  For me I know that the results have been totally worth any work and struggle to attain the items on my bucket list.  Now the job for me is to dream just a little bit bigger.