I never thought that I would experience an identity crisis at 72. But I did!
For the last thirty years, I have had fun, made great life friends, won cruises and awards, and made great money. But that ended abruptly one day. Senior leaders were invited to a conference call where company leaders informed us that the last day of business would be December 31, 2021. The reasons were partially due to Covid and a change in people’s buying habits.
Identity Rocked
This announcement was an earthquake to me. My identity as a successful entrepreneur was all about the business I represented. Sure, I had thought I would someday end this incredible business journey. But, at that time, I had no idea somebody else would make that decision for me.
We all had a month to process the closing announcement. It gave me time to shed some tears and reflect on what this fascinating journey had provided for myself and my family and the intentional hard work that led me to be a top performer in the company. Over the years, I have done scores of Bible studies, read hundreds of books, and listened to thousands of hours of teachings and podcasts on being a better person, leader, believer, and servant to my organization and customers. I felt I had earned an additional degree in entrepreneurship during this time. Additionally, I was able to help scores of women learn what it means to become a Proverbs 31 Woman. I also experienced the joy of sharing my faith with my friends and was blessed to see some of them know what a loving relationship with Jesus is like.
Shift thinking
Now it was time for me to shift my thinking about whether to be a part of a similar business or discover new facets to my life, marriage, grandchildren, church, friends, and community.
There are days and weeks when I have wondered what my purpose in life looks like. Through the encouragement of others, time in the Word, conversations with John, and allowing myself the time and space to hear from the Lord, I am embracing the journey of the latter part of my life.
Thankfully my friends who have retired have helped me make the transition. It’s like experiencing grief, the death of a company and my part of that company and the lives we could touch. I no longer carry business cards or use my “elevator pitch” with everyone. Now it is just me, no cards, no pitching, just Angie Thurman, a woman who loves Jesus, John, her children, and grandchildren and is living my life for an audience of one.
The New Me Skin
Can I be comfortable in my new “me” skin? The answer is yes, though some days I miss living like “my hair is on fire,” and other days I am content with becoming the new and updated version of me.
Life is filled with transitions. If you lean into them, your life will be enriched if you embrace the adventure and move through the transitions. On the other hand, if you fail to embrace the changes and transitions, you might become bitter and feel useless.
My question for you: When you face some of the transitions that life throws at you, will you be bitter or better? The letter I or E is always a choice. Choose wisely.
I hope you will embrace the transitions and enrich others’ lives.
A closing thought from the Book of Proverbs.
Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions.
With all your heart rely on him to guide you,
and he will lead you in every decision you make.
Become intimate with him in whatever you do,
and he will lead you wherever you go.
Proverbs 3:5-6 The Passion Translation
Angie Thurman is a mom, Mimi, wife, and successful entrepreneur who spent more than three decades in the direct service industry and became a Senior Leader in Premier Designs Jewelry.
Like so many women, Angie has dealt with issues from emotional and physical abuse as a young girl and a battle with depression since she was in her thirties.
She has two successful adult children and five amazing grandchildren.
Angie, thank you for sharing your story and wise wisdom! I sometimes wonder why I’m here and what does God want from me. Being a mother of 4 successful children, being a teacher and then a guidance counselor, a realtor and other small careers on the side made me feel fulfilled and satisfied. Now,although I’ve been blessed in so many ways, I’m waiting and praying for God to show me His now purpose for my life…I don’t want to waste the last quarter of my life !
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Selma. I know that the Lord will show you satisfying and meaningful ways to enrich others.
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Angie
Angie, this is a remarkable account of your journey thus far.
With such an illustrious set of careers, I can see you as a Mentor of many women in various stages and ages.
Thank you for being vulnerable and transparent. That is very rare in this day and age.
You go, Girl!
Janie Wiley Jones
Thanks Janie. I was telling John about your angelic, powerful voice from our university years. We both have the privilege of living long interesting lives. I know that you are an influencer too.
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Angie
Great article Angie! Transitions are usually hard, and as we enter our later years we may “retire” but still want meaningful work. I think God gives us this extra time to mentor those behind us. With no job competition or pressure to move up the success ladder we finally, truly have time to mentor others. There is no better feeling than helping someone grow closer to Jesus and see the positive effects on their whole life.
Angie, you’ve been mentoring for years, so now God has just given you the gift of more time with Him and also more time to pass on your wealth of hindsight, biblical knowledge and blessings! Your legacy will be amazing.
Thanks for your kind words. It is humbling to know that the Lord uses the broken to encourage and on-site change in others.
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Angie
I appreciate your article Angie. Thank you for sharing from your heart!
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You are quite the writer. Well done.
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Thanks for sharing an update of on your next Season of life! I’m so thankful the Lord brought our lives together through Premier. Those were wonderful years. God has a purpose and plan and it’s exciting to follow Him , trusting His good plan. I’m enjoying more time to mentor young women, Bible study facilitating, writing, speaking for Christian Women’s Connection, family times and some travel! Love to see you whenever you come to Phoenix!
Thanks Sharon. You are a wonderful example to follow. Been thinking about an AZ trip. So many sweet people to love.
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This new Angie might be like the Angie I knew 50 years ago. I will be waiting and watching as God leads you into a slower pace and different type race. I know God still has much for your life, this is a new season. BTW…I love the description of life with Hair on Fire. And I thought you were a natural red head!
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Angie,
WOW! I really do not like the word “retirement.” I prefer “transition” and you are SO right. Life is full of them. We do not stop being people at age 65. I am so sorry this happened to you with Premier. And I am also thankful that you have friends to help you transition. You are amazing and I cannot wait to hear about your next adventure!!! Thank you for sharing these honest emotions and thoughts.
You are a courageous, dear person to share this with us. The Proverbs inspirational that you cited clicked for me. When one has a Rock, life’s twists and turns can be salved.