Pursuing Mid-life Dreams

Learning From Buffy the Vampire Slayer

I love Joss Whedon’s sense of humor and writing style. Now known for The Avengers movies, I first became familiar with him from the show Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Have to admit, I love that series. Even nearing fifteen years later, its humor and pathos hold up when I watch reruns. I think one of the main things I learned as a writer is that the most ordinary, small moments in life can have the biggest emotional impact. Yes, and that from a sci-fi, fantasy horror show.

Generally, I’m not a big fan of horror, but I am a huge fan of clever writing, alternative ways to look at the world, and strong character relationships. An important concept I came away with was that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. You’d expect it from the young people trying to decide who they are and where their talents should lead, but the adults also had to grow, take chances, and persevere to make new dreams come true.

Buffy’s mom started over in a new town with a new job and no friends in order to help her daughter find her path. In doing so, she found her own and learned to deal with a child who would never fit into a so-called normal life.

Buffy’s mentor and father figure, Giles, had circumstances force some career changes on him. Another, proprietor of a magic shop, he pursued for himself and made it successful. He also dealt with redefining his role in Buffy’s life as her powers and maturity progressed and made her less reliant on his advice.

What Do You Want to be When You Grow Up?

Well, not grow up, necessarily, but hearing life say to you, “Time for a change.” I’m coming to the writer’s life late in a field where youth may be thought of as more marketable. On the other hand, I’m of the baby boomer generation, which gives me a wide audience of people more likely to share my general likes and outlooks.

 The most important point is that I’ve found my passion and have the maturity to work through the long haul and not expect instantaneous gratification. Can’t say that I have fewer distractions. Starting motherhood later in life, I still have a child at home. I believe that in some respects kids need us even more as teenagers, but that’s another post. Writing makes me feel vitally alive and I’m grateful for any examples that assure me it’s never too late to pursue a dream.