You still can be. I didn't publish my first book until I was 64. Didn't matter if I was a success (although that book did get some great reviews...and some bad reviews😁). I had decided that it was getting late for me to realize my dream of being a writer. So I went for it. You seem to have such a wealth of information. You have a love for it. I can't imagine what the obstacles may be, but when the clock strikes midnight (it will for all of us), you want to look back and know you climbed the mountain that called to you.
I hope it is possible for you. I'd love to hear about it if it does happen 🍀
That's awesome you fulfilled your dream to be a published author! What did you write?
I have always wanted to do that too, so thanks for being an inspiration... I have 14 years to match you!
I think my problem is the money and time needed for a degree. Do I really believe in it that much? Do I want a paid career out of it - no. Because if it's just passion, fascination, interest - then I can just keep reading and learning bits and pieces.
But give me a time machine to 1990 with no return ticket... Well that'd be a different story.
Well, you have to think about your dream then in different ways. I think what you are doing here is on the path to your dream. You are informing people like me about plants and herbs, things I never paid attention to. Between you and @borjan, my eyes have been opened in a way that they never were before. I actually think fungi are beautiful now :)
My book was written after many years of illness that had not been treated properly. That time is past, but I thought I'd share what I learned with others who were dealing with the same issues. When I read the book now, I see edits I would make, but that's history and I've moved on. That was the beginning of my writing career.
If you're curious, here it is: These Are the Faces of Lupus
If you read my book (I'm not recommending that unless you have lupus 😇), you'll know more about me than I typically share here. I am very private. But the rest of the world knows, so why not you?
I am so much older than you. It's easy to be philosophical, and measured. Really, there isn't much choice anymore 😄. I tell my daughter (who doesn't always feel fulfilled in her job), make sure every single day you do something that brings you joy. Every day. No matter what else happens, in that day, grab a little piece for yourself.
You seem to be so creative, and giving. I think it must be easy for you to take that advice🌼