Book Review: Late Bloomers

"Late Bloomers" written by Brendan Gill is an amazing completion of seventy-five short profiles. Each profile is only a page long but packed with information about a unique individual. These remarkable individuals who's greatest achievements occurred or were recognized in the second half of their lives. Although they all came from different backgrounds each individual succeeded in making their later years very productive and joy filled .

Some folks like Harry Truman had a profound change in occupation. Still others like Boris Karloff, the actor, labored for years in their chosen profession but did not receive recognition till their later years. Many like Julia Child didn't begin producing their life's work till late middle age. Still others like Colonel Sanders or Mary Kay Ashe were in their late 60s before fame and fortune became theirs.

Once timely and timeless, "Late Bloomers" is a book, no a Spiritual awakening, to us that believe it's never too late. Today the economy is in trouble. The race for president is once again down to which millionaire will do the least harm. Folks are living longer and fuller lives so "Late Bloomers" may only be a prelude of what is to come. We have some very educated individuals that like being productive about to retire. I see them going for the gusto of a second career, perhaps a dream from long ago.

This is the generation that has learned to get back up after life knocks them down. We fought in the rice paddies of Vietnam and came home to a hate filled country. We made the difference. We swore we would never get old and we haven't...just don't trust anyone over Ninety-nine. We have taught our grandkids how to find joy in work and success was a job well done.

As time passes these "Late Bloomers" will fade into history. Our generation too. I hope the tears will fade first and the laughter last for many generations to come. Soon all that will be left are gravestones in a church yard. A new generation will write and read the books, but our legends will stand taller than John Wayne and wider than Fats Domino.

All I can ask is what would this world be like if I hadn't showed up? Will I be remembered for my whit and wisdom? Perhaps my stubborn enthusiasm will be all that is remembered... or perhaps just my hard headed personality... Mizpah. ;-}}>