The Late-in-Life Writer
August 1, 2024
Dinosaur bones are just one type of research that tells us about the past. No, I'm not going to tell you about archeologists and where they dig or their latest finds. This post is about "old bones," in general.
In fact, let's just look at old things and how they can show us a way forward. If I think about life for my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, it means I am looking back at three generations ago. Why might that be important?
Learning who we are starts back in earlier generations. You most likely have heard about DNA tests that can help you know more about your family. Does that
interest you? How many generations have been born in the USA? Where did they come from? Why did they come here? Do you suppose they were more interested in getting away from something or someone... or focused on achieving something better with the change? When humans know what they have, they can imagine something better. Parents usually want a better life for their children. When they assist them in exploring what this might look like, it is considered "nurture."
However, the term "nature" means it happens over time and change is slow. Each generation adds something to the next. It could be size, health, better vision, etc. The changes happen on the deepest level, which means in the DNA. However, sometimes it demonstrates the potential of something negative, like disease. This can actually be a good thing in that we can learn to be pro-active to correct for issues in genetics.
I will use myself as an example. I am in my 70s. I am considered healthy and practice routines such as daily exercise, eating healthy foods and do things that keep me alert and "growing" even at this age. For many of you, I could be your parent or grandparent. For me, age is just a number. I truly want to learn something new each day and do so by reading, doing and watching things that add to my knowledge and understanding of the world we live in. How can I make my life better and leave the world a better place? Curiosity is key!
Since retiring, I made a conscious decision to make my days count. I do not have any grandchildren and only one adult child. As you already know, I write books for children. I find joy in writing something that children might enjoy and learn from. It makes me happy to make them happy. But, I am challenged daily by working on my computer, given all the aspects of algorithms, formats, and a myriad of other developments that impact my ability to use technology.
So, what does all this have to do with dinosaur bones? My personal dinosaur bones need to rethink the "how" and "why" of everyday life to keep doing what I am doing. It may not always sound like it, but I do love a challenge!
Ask any kid what makes them happy and what makes them think (problem-solve)? You might be surprised at where that question can take them!
My next book will take kids in that direction... to be continued!
Here's a fun sheet from National Geographic sharing the differences between wings. Download it HERE.
Stay curious! Have fun!
Halina Schafer, Author
Third-Career Press
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