Once the emptiness is truly felt, it takes courage to seek the answer outside of the cultural norms. I felt it deeply at the age of 49, walked away from my job and pension to teach wilderness skills. It was not an easy path, but it was necessary for my spiritual survival, and fortunately, I had a wife who loved me enough to welcome my decision. Now in my mid-80's, I look back and realize we shared a life of true meaning, and my heart is content.