Your Honest Desire Never Expires—It Waits to Manifest

PAR-M-ENTAL HEALTH

5/4/20252 min read

pink flower
pink flower

Redefining Parenthood in the Era of 100-Year Lives

In parenting, everything can feel “too late” — as if the clock ticks faster once children arrive. With so much of our time and energy devoted to nurturing the next generation, it’s natural to feel that our own aspirations have been put on hold. Historically, life was structured around this very idea. When the global life expectancy hovered around 50 years — as it did until the early 1960s — the second and final phase of adulthood was largely focused on raising children. But today, modern advancements in home technology and the internet have opened up new possibilities, carving out moments of free time and reshaping the way we live.

Breaking Through Old Values

Today, the narrative is shifting. We’re learning that life can be structured differently. After my parenting years, I began to notice a series of X (formerly Twitter) posts from a DJ school in Tokyo. The videos showed young students joyfully practicing their skills, and I found myself captivated. A part of me longed to join them — but I hesitated. DJing seemed like something only young people did.

Even though I was already familiar with music sequencing software as a composer, the sight of all those buttons and levers on the DJ equipment intimidated me. Still, when I saw a post about a free trial lesson, I couldn’t resist. I went. And that one class, led by a kind and efficient instructor, sparked something powerful in me — a desire to break away from outdated assumptions.

Your Life, Your Manifestation

Diving into DJing turned out to be far more fulfilling than I ever imagined. Surrounded by talented and supportive classmates, I found myself fully immersed in the experience. After countless hours of practice, I passed the final test and even performed at well-known clubs in Tokyo. This journey wasn’t just about picking up a new hobby; it became living proof that it’s never too late to pursue what sets your soul alight.

What I learned is this: a heart that shines with joy attracts luck and opportunity. Whether you’re a parent or not, each of us holds the power — and the responsibility — to shape a meaningful, joyful life. Parenthood isn’t the end of personal growth. It can coexist beautifully with it.

So if you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering if your dreams are behind you, please remember: they’re not. Whether it’s learning an instrument, exploring dance, mastering a language, or picking up a new art form — your passions still matter. Make room for them. Redefine your story.

After all, living a fulfilled life doesn’t just nourish you — it inspires your children to do the same.