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    Looking for your unqualified opinion!!!

    Unqualified because you don't know me that well, but respected because we share a little history on this site and I've seen the integrity from most of you.


    I've been taking classes at the community college for 4 semesters, just things I am interested in... jewelry making, poetry writing, humanities, history, art appreciation...   NOW, I think I would like to work towards a certificate in drug and alcohol counseling, and have an appointment with an advisor this coming Friday.  With a BA in sociology, I don't think it will be a difficult or lengthy course of study, and I could find some part time employment HELPING people, which I enjoy. 


    Any thoughts on pursuit of a "new career" at 63? 

    +10  Views: 1803 Answers: 11 Posted: 9 years ago

    11 Answers

    You're never too old, go for it!

     I believe you have enough experience behind your belt dealing with family members alone. You will make a fantastic counselor. 

    Bob/PKB

    No kidding. They all are drug-tested quarterly for inheritance purposes, and are coming up clean. Custody of the kids depends on it, as do relationships, employment, and their own well-being. It's a day-to-day as far as I'm concerned. No one sits in the middle of "the wagon"; they're all perched on the edge, and the road is always bumpy. God's grace.

    Absolutely, positively, go for it! You are the only one who will be conscious about the number 63. I'm not bragging but must tell you, I've still had (unsolicited) job offers into my 70's. Employers don't care about the "age thing" and can't ask anyway. They often want work/life experience more than anything else. You'll be great! GO BOB GO!!!

    Bob/PKB

    Yeah! Shake those pom poms!!! Thank you, Ducky! I'm doing it
    Ducky

    Moderator
    Applause! Applause! Applause! (Hopefully you'll have time between homework assignments, to let us know how it's going.)
    Bob/PKB

    :) You bet! Won't be til January if I make the attempt, but I won't be fooling around with it. It will be a prescribed set of courses, and I'll want to ace them as quickly as possible!!
    Ducky

    Moderator
    :) Of course you will.

    I say go for it. If you feel you have the ability to take it on, why not?.Good on you for wanting to better yourself.Good Luck.

    Bob/PKB

    Thanks for the encouragement! My middle son was enrolled with this goal in mind, and didn't continue after working full time all summer. He would be a great resource for the counseling profession. He can empathize on both sides of the substance abuse coin, having many years of using drugs and then, after getting clean, having a baby with a woman who was using heroin behind his back during the pregnancy. His son spent 7 weeks in the NICU and was still receiving methadone when he finally got to go home. Doing well now.....so far.....
    I'll let you know what I find out. I'm ready for this...doing something worthwhile for a change.
    pythonlover

    Moderator
    All the more reason you should pursue it. Not only are you learning from a text book, you have had hands on experience. That's what makes a good counselor.

    Hearts in the right place Bob,,but you probably already know trying to help alcoholic and Drug people can break the strongest of hearts,, i am a non practising alcoholic,and i do not help others like myself for fear of being dragged back down,,i must do that to make sure i remain sober,,just be sure you know what you are getting into,,All the best in your choice Bob..>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<..

    Bob/PKB

    You reminded me of something I do know....no one can be helped who is not ready. Hopefully, I'll be able to facilitate that readiness. Thanks!!!
    terryfossil 1

    Always remember Bob,,a drunk will always tell you what you want to hear..and yes they have to hit THEIR rock bottom>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<..
    Bob/PKB

    .....and most of them can sink below that! It will be a challenge.

    Of course do it. Having a goal is great inspiration. Practice?  Go to AA's and become a sponsor. ....

    Bob/PKB

    No, thanks. That will have to wait until I learn how not to scream at someone who lapses.
    jhharlan

    Uh oh! That's just as bad as the republican/democratic feud. You don't scream at someone for relapsing. Abuse is a disease. Like having a cold that won't go away, ever. A constant battle. Takes more than "just do it" and tap into your willpower. It's not a failure to fall off. Count the good days....
    Bob/PKB

    I am well aware of all of this, Julie. Some people who relapse deserve a whack up the side of the head, though. Some people "just won't do it". Addiction comes in all shapes and sizes and forms.

    Go for it, Phyllis! I'm trying to embark on a new career at 69. D.T. It's Donald Trump as you've never seen him before - Democratic ...

    Its a good thing that you do Bob,more power to your elbow,

    Good for you! I believe you will make a wonderful and sincere councilor. 60 is the new 40, so enjoy!

    Bob/PKB

    Thank you, witchway. I really appreciate the word "sincere" in your answer!
    witchway

    You're welcome Phyllis!

    Bob/PKB what exciting wonderful news! Carry out your loves and goals.  Don't think about age. My mom who is an amazing woman wrote 4 books after 63. However, my mother rarely told her age, she just did what she liked and it was always humanitarian activities toward our family and outside the family.  She's 87 now and still moving right along. For the last 20 or so years she has given, every year 10 high school girl graduates $1,000 to help with college.  Last week i picked her up to go to acupuncture doctor and she had a t-shirt on that said "swag" with a purple baseball cap with rhinestones. now this is a positive woman that truly believes age is just a number, do your Christian duty, think positive and be happy one day at a time.

    hector5559

    Well done your Mum tabber,
    Ducky

    Moderator
    She sounds amazing!

    Bobby I still don't know what I wanna be when / if I grow up ... you give 'er baby!!! You've got the heart for it and you sound determined ... a sure recipe for success!


    ""



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