WWJS
I researched the symbolism of the objects I noted on my Jungian ride yesterday.
The empty parking lot and empty trail were perfect symbols for the uncharted territory of retirement. The good symbolic news was that as I journeyed, I started to see people along the path.
I have found generally in riding and jogging the trail that younger people tend to ignore me–ageist pigs! Unless they are former students. Older women (40 and up) tend to be more friendly. Males tend to grunt replies and do the nod. Older couples are more greeting-happy. Women pushing strollers hope you are not there to steal their babies. In symbolic sum, I should rely on those within 20 years of my age.
Maneuvering around the manure at the end of the bridge said to me that I was done with all the crap that gets heaped on the contemporary teacher. But what did the encounter on the return ride mean? Turns out that manure can stand for prosperity and growth–a fertilizer. George Costanza was right–manure is a good word!
Bridges can represent transitions. Certainly apt for my life situation. Going over calm water is a good symbol also: comfort with life changes.
The hill is hard work. How high I want to go is up to me, and my capabilities. What is at the top of the hill? We’ll see. Maybe.
So it goes on the archetypical trail of life.
The Q-View 